Composite forming apparatus, system and method

ABSTRACT

A composite forming apparatus includes an end effector, a forming feature, and a non-contact heater. The forming feature is coupled to the end effector. The end effector moves the forming feature relative to a composite ply to form the composite ply over a forming tool or a prior formed composite ply. The non-contact heater heats to a portion of the composite ply before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to composite manufacturing and, more particularly, to apparatuses, systems, and methods for fabricating composite laminates and structures.

BACKGROUND

Formed composite structures are commonly used in applications where light weight and high strength are desired, such as in aircraft and vehicles. Often, these applications utilize contoured parts that must be formed and then cured. Conventional formation of composite structures, particularly relatively large composite structures or composite structures having a complex contour, requires extensive manual labor prior to curing. For example, composite fiber plies (e.g., pre-impregnated fiber plies or dry fabric) are laid by hand over a shaped forming tool or mandrel. The part is then cured, often by heating and pressure. The resulting part matches the shape of the forming tool. However, layup of the fiber plies is time consuming and laborious. Additionally, fiber plies can be difficult to manipulate when being formed over the forming tool. Accordingly, those skilled in the art continue with research and development efforts in the field of composite manufacturing.

SUMMARY

Disclosed are examples of an apparatus for forming a composite, a system for forming a composite, a method for forming a composite, and a composite. The following is a non-exhaustive list of examples, which may or may not be claimed, of the subject matter according to the present disclosure.

In an example, the disclosed composite forming apparatus includes an end effector, a forming feature, and a non-contact heater. The forming feature is coupled to the end effector. The end effector moves the forming feature relative to a composite ply to form the composite ply over a forming tool or a prior formed composite ply. The non-contact heater locally heats a portion of the composite ply before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply.

In an example, the disclosed composite forming system includes a movement mechanism. The composite forming apparatus is coupled to the movement mechanism. The composite forming system also includes a forming tool or a prior formed composite ply that includes a forming surface. The movement mechanism selectively positions the composite forming apparatus relative to the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply. The non-contact heater locally heats a portion of the composite ply via at least one of radiation and convection, such as by at least one of inductive or infrared or Xenon flash or laser flash, before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply using the forming feature.

In an example, the disclosed method is for forming a composite laminate on a forming surface of a forming tool or a prior formed composite ply using the composite forming apparatus.

In an example, the disclosed composite is a composite laminate that is formed on a forming surface of a forming tool or a prior formed composite ply using the composite forming apparatus.

In another example, the disclosed composite forming system includes a movement mechanism, an end effector, a forming feature, and a non-contact heater. The end effector is coupled to the movement mechanism. The forming feature is coupled to the end effector. The non-contact heater is positioned relative to a composite ply. The end effector selectively moves the forming feature relative to the composite ply to compact the composite ply against a forming surface of a forming tool or a prior formed composite ply using the forming feature. The movement mechanism selectively moves the end effector relative to the composite ply to form a portion of the composite ply over at least a portion of the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply using the forming feature. The non-contact heater locally heats the portion of the composite ply via at least one of radiation and convection before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply by the forming feature.

In another example, the disclosed method is for forming a composite laminate on a forming surface of a forming tool or a prior formed composite ply using the composite forming system.

In another example, the disclosed composite is a composite laminate that is formed on a forming surface of a forming tool or a prior formed composite ply using the composite forming system.

In another example, the disclosed method includes steps of: (1) placing a composite ply over a forming tool or over a prior formed composite ply; (2) locally heating a portion of the composite ply via at least one of radiation and convection using a non-contact heater; (3) positioning a forming feature in contact with the composite ply using an end effector; and (4) forming the portion of the composite ply over the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply using the forming feature after heating the portion of the composite ply using the non-contact heater.

In another example, the disclosed method includes steps of: (1) placing a composite ply over a forming tool or over a prior formed composite ply; (2) locally heating a portion of the composite ply via at least one of radiation and convection; (3) compressing the portion of the composite ply against a forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply; and (4) forming the portion of the composite ply over at least a portion of the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply after locally heating the portion of the composite ply. The portion of the composite ply is heated directly ahead of forming.

In another example, the disclosed composite apparatus is operated according to the method.

In another example, the disclosed composite is a composite structure that is formed according to the method.

In another example, the disclosed composite is a composite structure that includes at least one layer of a composite ply. The at least one layer of the composite ply is formed over a forming tool or a prior formed composite ply. A portion of the composite ply is locally heated via at least one of radiation and convection directly ahead of the portion of the composite ply being formed over the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply.

Other examples of the disclosed composite forming apparatus, composite forming system, method for forming a composite, and composite will become apparent from the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of an example of a composite forming system;

FIG. 2 is a schematic, elevational view of an example of a portion of the composite forming system;

FIG. 3 is a schematic, elevational view of an example of a portion of a composite forming apparatus of the composite forming system;

FIG. 4 is a schematic, elevational view of an example of a portion of a composite forming apparatus of the composite forming system;

FIG. 5 is a schematic, perspective view of an example of the composite forming system;

FIG. 6 is a schematic, elevational view of an example of the composite forming system;

FIG. 7 is a schematic, elevational view of an example of the composite forming system and a forming tool;

FIG. 8 is a schematic, elevational view of an example of a portion of the composite forming system;

FIG. 9 is a schematic, elevational view of an example of a portion of a second composite forming apparatus of the composite forming system;

FIG. 10 is a schematic, perspective view of an example of a plurality of composite forming apparatuses of the composite forming system;

FIG. 11 is a schematic, perspective view of an example of a plurality of second composite forming apparatuses of the composite forming system;

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of an example of a method for forming a composite;

FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of an example of an aircraft manufacturing and service methodology; and

FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration of an example of an aircraft.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring generally to FIGS. 1-11 , by way of examples, the present disclosure is directed to a composite forming apparatus 100 and a composite forming system 300 for forming a composite on a forming tool or on a prior formed composite ply during a composite manufacturing operation. Referring generally to FIGS. 1-11 and particularly to FIG. 12 , by way of examples, the present disclosure is also directed to a method 1000 for forming a composite on a forming tool or on a prior formed composite ply during a composite manufacturing operation. In one or more examples, implementations of the composite forming apparatus 100, the composite forming system 300 and the method 1000 are utilized to form a number of composite plies on a forming tool or on a prior formed composite ply to fabricate a composite laminate, which is subsequently cured to form a composite structure.

Referring to FIGS. 1-4 , examples of the composite forming apparatus 100 and the composite forming system 300 enable automated, or at least partially automated, fabrication of a composite laminate 328 on a forming tool 308 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 ) or on a prior formed composite ply 312-1 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4 ). The composite laminate 328 is then cured through the application of heat and/or pressure (e.g., using an oven or autoclave) to manufacture (e.g., make) a composite structure 314. More particularly, examples of the composite forming apparatus 100 and the composite forming system 300 enable automated, or at least partially automated, compaction and formation of at least one layer of the composite ply 312 over a forming surface 310 for fabrication of the composite laminate 328.

In one or more examples, the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 includes the forming surface 310. Accordingly, in one or more examples, the forming surface 310, on which the composite ply 312 is formed, is established (e.g., formed or defined) by a surface of the forming tool 308 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 ). Alternatively, in one or more examples, the forming surface 310, on which the composite ply 312 is formed, is established (e.g., formed or defined) by a surface of the prior formed composite ply 312-1 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4 ). However, in other examples, the forming surface 310 may be established (e.g., formed or defined) by an intermediary layer, such as, but not limited to, a material substrate, a release layer or film, or the like.

For the purpose of the present disclosure, the term “composite ply 312” generally refers to a composite ply that forms at least a portion of the composite laminate 328 and/or that is being actively heated and formed using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or composite forming system 300. As will be described in greater detail herein, a plurality of composite plies may be successively heated and formed to fabricate the composite laminate 328 on the forming tool 308.

As illustrated in FIG. 3 , in one or more examples, a first layer of the composite ply (e.g., a first composite ply) is the composite ply 312, which is formed directly on the forming tool 308. In these examples, the forming tool 308 establishes the forming surface 310. As illustrated in FIG. 4 , in one or more examples, a second layer of the composite ply (e.g., a second composite ply) is the composite ply 312, which is formed directly on the first layer of the composite ply. In these examples, the first layer of the composite ply becomes the prior formed composite ply 312-1 and establishes the forming surface 310. In one or more examples, a third layer of the composite ply (e.g., a third composite ply) may be formed on the second layer of the composite ply, a fourth layer of the composite ply (e.g., a fourth composite ply) may be formed on the third layer of the composite ply, and so forth in succession until completion of the composite laminate 328.

As such, for the purpose of the present disclosure, the term “prior formed composite ply 312-1” (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4 ) refers to a composite ply that has been previously heated and formed, whether directly on the forming tool 308 or on an underling, previously formed composite ply. Accordingly, as described herein, the composite ply 312 may be formed on the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 ) or of the prior formed composite ply 312-1 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4 ).

Automation of the ply formation process and/or laminate formation process can provide a reduction in processing time, a reduction in labor and costs, and/or a reduction of process variations (e.g., human error) that may lead to undesired inconsistencies in the finished composite structure as compared to conventional composite fabrication. In one or more implementations, the composite forming apparatus 100 and the composite forming system 300 enable ply-by-ply application (e.g., layup) of composite material (e.g., pre-preg, dry fiber, multi-axial non-crimp fabric, etc.) to fabricate the composite laminate 328 on the forming tool 308. In one or more implementations, the composite forming apparatus 100 and the composite forming system 300 enable full thickness forming of a pre-collated stack of composite plies. Following layup, the composite laminate 328 is cured to form the composite structure 314. Ply-by-ply forming facilitates fabrication of large composite structures, thick composite structures and/or composite structures with complex shapes. Ply-by-ply formation can also provide a reduction in buckling or wrinkling of plies within the composite structure as compared to conventional composite fabrication.

In one particular implementation, the disclosed composite forming apparatus 100, composite forming system 300, and method 1000 facilitate heat setting of a carbon fiber material during a hot drape shear forming operation. As such, in one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300 may be, or take the form of, a hot drape shear forming machine. In one or more examples, the principles described herein are applicable to fabrics with a thermoplastic fabric layer, fabric with a thermally sensitive layer disposed between structural layers, and/or fabric that is infused with a matrix binder material.

Referring still to FIGS. 1-4 , the composite forming apparatus 100 and the composite forming system 300 operate to compact or compress (e.g., apply pressure or force to) and form (e.g., manipulate) the composite ply 312 on or over the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1). Additionally, the composite forming apparatus 100 and composite forming system 300 operate to indirectly heat a localized region of (e.g., locally heat) the composite ply 312, which is to be compacted and formed over the forming surface 310.

In one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 and composite forming system 300 indirectly heat a localized region of the composite ply 312 immediately before and/or during compaction and/or formation of the composite ply 312. For example, the composite forming apparatus 100 and composite forming system 300 locally heat a portion 350 of the composite ply 312 to a forming temperature prior to compacting and/or forming the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1.

For the purpose of the present disclosure, the terms “locally heat,” “local heating,” and similar terms refer to heating a localized (e.g., particular or discrete) portion, section, or region of the composite ply 312 in order to increase a temperature of the localized portion, section, or region of the composite ply 312, for example, to a desired forming temperature. As used herein, the localized portion, section, or region of the composite ply 312 being heated is referred to as portion 350 of the composite ply 312 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 2-4 and 8 ) and/or as second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 ). The localized portion, section, or region (e.g., portion 350 and/or the second portion 352) of the composite ply 312 that is locally heated is the same portion, section, or region of the composite ply 312 that is formed over the forming surface 310. Generally, the portion 350 and/or the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is locally heated ahead of forming and/or downstream of forming in a direction of forming (e.g., in the direction of directional arrow 374 as shown in FIG. 2 ), such as by at least one of inductive or infrared or Xenon flash or laser flash heating.

The forming temperature to which the composite ply 312 is heated may depend upon a number of factors including, but not limited to, the type of composite material being used (e.g., a pre-preg, a dry preform, a multi-axial non-crimp fabric, unidirectional tape, etc.), the geometry of the forming tool 308, and other process constraints. Generally, the forming temperature is greater than room temperature and less than a cure temperature for the composite laminate 328. Heating the composite ply 312 to the forming temperature softens the composite ply 312 and prepares the composite ply 312 for manipulation over the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1), which improves the ability of the composite ply 312 to conform to the shape of the forming surface 310.

In an example, the forming temperature is at least approximately 100° F. (38° C.). In another example, the forming temperature is at least approximately 200° F. (93° C.). In another example, the forming temperature is at least approximately 300° F. (149° C.). In another example, the forming temperature is at least approximately 400° F. (204° C.). In another example, the forming temperature is at least approximately 500° F. (260° C.). In another example, the forming temperature is at least approximately 600° F. (316° C.). In another example, the forming temperature is at least approximately 700° F. (371° C.). In another example, the forming temperature is at least approximately 800° F. (427° C.).

Referring to FIGS. 2-4 , in one or more examples, following local heating of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312, the composite forming apparatus 100 and composite forming system 300 then compact or compress (e.g., apply a compaction force 144 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 ) evenly across the composite ply 312 to form the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 as shown in FIG. 3 or of the prior formed composite ply 312-1 as shown in FIG. 4 ). The composite forming apparatus 100 moves along the forming surface 310 at varying and/or selectively controlled speeds, pressures, and/or angles to accommodate various geometries of the forming surface 310, which shapes the composite ply 312 and reduces or eliminates bubbles, wrinkles, or other inconsistencies and nonconformities. Heating the composite ply 312 directly before (e.g., immediately prior to) and/or during compaction and formation also increases the adhesion, or tackiness, of the composite ply 312, which improves the ability of the composite ply 312 to stay in place on the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1).

In one or more examples, the compaction force 144 may vary or is selectively controlled as needed. In an example, the compaction force 144 may range from approximately 20 pounds per linear inch to approximately 200 pounds per linear inch. In another example, the compaction force my range from approximately 30 pounds per linear inch to approximately 100 pounds per linear inch.

In one or more examples, the composite ply 312 includes or refers to a single ply of a composite material, which forms one layer of thickness of the composite laminate 328. In other examples, the composite ply 312 includes or refers to a multiple plies (e.g., a stack) of the composite material, which form a plurality of layers of thickness of the composite laminate 328. In yet other examples, the composite ply 312 includes or refers multiple plies of the composite material or a pre-collated stack of plies of composite material, which form a full thickness of the composite laminate 328. Accordingly, throughout the present disclosure, the phrase “composite ply” may refer to a number of plies or a number of layers of the composite material, unless explicitly stated otherwise. The composite ply 312 may also be referred to as a composite patch, a composite preform, or a composite charge.

The composite material may take the form of any one of various suitable types of composite material having any one of various ply angles or fiber orientations. The forming apparatus 100, the forming system 300 and the method 1000 are used to heat and form the composite ply 312.

In one or more examples, the composite material includes a fiber reinforcement, also referred to as a dry fabric. In these examples, the composite laminate 328 is formed of a number of composite plies 312 of the dry fiber reinforcement, also referred to as a dry preform. In one or more examples, the forming apparatus 100, the forming system 300 and the method 1000 are used to heat the composite ply 312, which includes the dry fiber reinforcement having a thermoplastic or thermoset veil and/or a thermoplastic or thermoset knit. In these examples, the composite laminate 328 is formed and consolidated on the forming tool 308. Following formation and consolidation, the composite laminate 328 is then infused with a matrix material (e.g., resin) and cured. The composite laminate 328 may be infused with the matrix material and/or cured on the forming tool 308 or may be transferred to a dedicated tool for matrix infusion and/or cure.

In a particular example, the composite ply 312 is a multi-axial non-crimp fabric that includes a thermoplastic veil and a thermoplastic knit stitch. In one or more examples, the multi-axial non-crimp fabric includes multiple layers of fiber stacked in multiple fiber orientations with a toughing veil placed between each layer. The multiple layers are held together with a knit thread. Other examples of the multi-axial non-crimp fabric may omit the veil. In other examples, the multi-axial non-crimp fabric may include a binder material. The multi-axial non-crimp fabric may have as few as one fiber orientation or may have multi-axial orientations, such as up to eight fiber orientations with some orientations being replicated. Application of heat to the composite ply 312 directly before and/or during compaction and formation of the composite ply 312 softens the thermoplastic veil to improve formability of the composite ply 312. Application of heat to the composite ply 312 directly before and/or during compaction and formation of the composite ply 312 also softens or melts the knit stitch and increases the tackiness of the thermoplastic veil to improve adhesion of the composite ply 312 to the forming surface 310. For example, heating the composite ply 312 helps to tack the composite ply 312 into the desired shape after forming. Additionally, heating the composite ply 312 may increase drapability or the ability to form the composite ply 312 to the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1).

In one or more examples, the composite ply 312, used to form the composite laminate 328, does not have any tack at room temperature. Thus, at room temperature, the composite ply 312 may lack the ability to hold its shape after forming. In one or more examples, composite ply 312 (e.g., the multi-axial non-crimp fabric or unidirectional fabric material) has a thermoplastic material (e.g., a thermoplastic veil) that melts between approximately 340° F. (171° C.) and approximately 355° F. (180° C.). At temperatures lower than this, the composite ply 312 may creep and tack to the forming surface 310 without damaging the thermoplastic veil by melting it. The composite forming apparatus 100, the composite forming system 300, and the method 1000 disclosed herein provide for non-contact heating of the material forming the composite ply 312 during a forming process to allow the composite ply 312 to be tacked to adjacent composite plies. The heating also helps to reduce bulk factor in the material.

In one or more examples, the composite material includes a fiber reinforcement that is impregnated with the matrix material, also referred to as a pre-preg or a wet preform. In these examples, the composite laminate 328 is formed by laminating a number of composite plies 312 of the pre-preg, such as multiple courses of unidirectional composite tape, which are impregnated with a resin matrix. In one or more examples, the forming apparatus 100, the forming system 300 and the method 1000 are used to heat the composite ply 312 including the pre-preg composite material to a temperature in the range of approximately 350° F. (176° C.) for thermoset pre-preg composite materials or up to approximately 800° F. (426° C.) for thermoplastic pre-preg composite materials. Application of heat to the composite ply 312 immediately before and/or during compaction and formation of the composite ply 312 changes (e.g., increases) the viscosity of the resin matrix present in the composite ply 312 to be formed, thereby making forming to the forming surface 310 more accurate and/or increasing the tack of the composite ply 312 to be formed to forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1). Heating also increases drapability of the composite ply 312 or the ability to form the composite ply 312 to the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 as shown in FIG. 3 or the prior formed ply 312-1 as shown in FIG. 4 ). It can be appreciated that there is relatively narrow window between too little heat and too much heat and it is desirable to not trigger full melting or curing of the composite ply 312 during the forming process.

The composite laminate 328 is formed on the forming tool 308. The composite laminate 328 includes or is formed from a number of composite plies 312. Additionally, in one or more examples, the composite laminate 328 is cured on the forming tool 308 to fabricate the composite structure 314. Accordingly, in one or more examples, the forming tool 308 is a dual-purpose tool, which serves as a layup tool (e.g., mandrel) and a cure tool.

In other examples, the forming tool 308 only serves as a layup tool or mandrel. In these examples, after fabrication of the composite laminate 328, the composite laminate 328 is transferred from the forming tool 308 to a dedicated cure tool (not shown). The composite laminate 328 is cured on the cure tool to fabricate the composite structure 314.

The forming tool 308 defines a shape of the composite laminate 328 formed on the forming tool 308 and, thus, a shape of the composite structure 314 cured on the forming tool 308. In an example, the forming surface 310 corresponds to and defines a shape of an inner mold line (IML) surface the composite laminate 328 and, thus, the composite structure 314. In these examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 shapes an outer mold line (OML) surface of each one of a plurality of layers of the composite ply 312 in succession until completing formation of the composite laminate 328. In another example, the forming surface 310 corresponds to and defines a shape of the outer mold line (OML) surface of the composite laminate 328 and, thus, the composite structure 314. In these examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 shapes the inner mold line (IML) surface of each one of a plurality of layers of the composite plies 312 in succession until completing formation of the composite laminate 328.

In one or more examples, the forming tool 308 has any one of various shapes depending on the composite structure 314 being manufactured. As an example, the forming tool 308 is a stringer forming tool and the composite structure 314 is a composite stringer. As another example, the forming tool 308 is a spar forming tool and the composite structure 314 is a composite spar. As another example, the forming tool 308 is a panel forming tool and the composite structure 314 is a composite panel.

Referring still to FIGS. 1-4 , in one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 actively and indirectly heats the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 via at least one of radiation or convection before and/or while compacting and forming the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1). In one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 includes an end effector 102, a forming feature 104, and a non-contact heater 112.

The forming feature 104 is coupled to the end effector 102. The end effector 102 moves the forming feature 104 relative to the composite ply 312 to form the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, the forming feature 104 presses and/or sweeps the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 ). In one or more examples, the forming feature 104 presses and/or sweeps the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 of the prior formed composite ply 312-1 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4 ).

In one or more examples, the end effector 102 is selectively movable (e.g., linearly, rotationally, and/or off-axis) relative to the forming tool 308 to position the forming feature 104 relative to the forming tool 308. The forming feature 104 moves with the end effector 102. As such, movement of end effector 102 sweeps the forming feature 104 along the composite ply 312 to sweep and form the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 ) or of the prior formed composite ply 312-1 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4 ).

Referring to FIG. 2 , in one or more examples, the end effector 102 is linearly movable along one or more axes (e.g., translates along a horizontal axis and/or a vertical axis). As an example, the end effector 102 linearly moves horizontally (e.g., along an X-axis in the directions of directional arrow 362) relative to the composite ply 312 or the forming surface 310, such as toward and away from the forming surface 310, while the composite ply 312 is being laid down (e.g., formed and compacted). As another example, end effector 102 linearly moves horizontally (e.g., along a Y-axis) relative to the composite ply 312 or the forming surface 310, such as along a length of the forming surface 310 or along width of the composite ply 312, while the composite ply 312 is being laid down. As another example, the end effector 102 linearly moves vertically (e.g., along a Z-axis in the directions of directional arrow 364) relative to the composite ply 312 or the forming surface 310, such as along a height of the forming surface 310 or along a length of the composite ply 312, while the composite ply 312 is being laid down. As another example, the end effector 102 linearly moves off-axis (e.g., in the directions of directional arrow 366) relative to the composite ply 312 or the forming surface 310 while the composite ply 312 is being laid down.

In one or more examples, the end effector 102 is rotationally movable along one or more axes (e.g., rotates about a horizontal axis and/or a vertical axis). As an example, the end effector 102 rotationally moves about a horizontal axis relative to the composite ply 312 or the forming surface 310 (e.g., in the direction of directional arrow 344) while the composite ply 312 is being laid down.

Referring again to FIGS. 1-4 , the non-contact heater 112 indirectly heats the composite ply 312 via at least one of radiation or convection. The non-contact heater 112 indirectly heats the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 before and/or while the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 ) or of the prior formed composite ply 312-1 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4 ) by the forming feature 104. The non-contact heater 112 is in indirect thermal communication with the composite ply 312 to heat the composite ply 312. For the purpose of the present disclosure, indirect heating refers to indirect, non-contact heat transfer using radiation or convection to achieve a desired temperature change.

In one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 is positioned relative to the forming feature 104 such that the non-contact heater 112 locally heats the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 directly ahead of (e.g., downstream of) the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 moves, or sweeps, over the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 to locally heat at least the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 to a desired forming temperature before formation of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 using the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 moves (e.g., translates) with the forming feature 104, for example, in the forming direction (e.g., in the direction of directional arrow 374 shown in FIG. 2 ), such that the non-contact heater 112 locally heats the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 relative to the forming feature 104 and directly before of the forming feature 104 compacts and/or forms the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. As such, in one or more examples, the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 being locally heated by the non-contact heater 112 is defined relative to the forming feature 104 and is generally located in front of, ahead of, or downstream of the forming feature 104.

Referring to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 is a radiant heater 114. The radiant heater 114 enables rapid, efficient, accurate, and uniform heating and precise temperature control. The radiant heater 114 includes any suitable heater that generates heat internally and radiates the heat to a nearby object. Examples of the radiant heater 114 include, but are not limited to, infrared (IR) heaters or emitters. laser heaters (e.g., steady state or laser flash), heating lamps (e.g., xenon flash lamps), inductive radiant heaters, and the like.

Referring still to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 is a convection heater 116. The convection heater 116 enables rapid and efficient heating and simple temperature control. The convection heater 116 includes any suitable heater that utilizes convection to transfer heat via the movement of a liquid or a gas. Examples of the convection heater 116 include, but are not limited to, heated air blower and the like.

In other examples, the non-contact heater 112 is any one of various other types of suitable indirect heaters.

Referring to FIG. 2 , in one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 is located proximate to (e.g., at or near) the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 is movable relative to the forming feature 104, relative to the end effector 102, and/or relative to forming tool 308. In one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 is coupled to the end effector 102. In one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 is coupled to the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 is independent of the end effector 102 and/or the forming feature 104.

Referring to FIGS. 2-4 , in one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 includes a heater-movement mechanism 158. The heater-movement mechanism 158 is coupled to the non-contact heater 112 and selectively moves and positions the non-contact heater 112 relative to the composite ply 312, the forming feature 104, and/or the forming surface 310. The heater-movement mechanism 158 includes any suitable selectively controllable movement device, such as, but not limited to, an articulating arm (e.g., a robotic arm), an actuator (e.g., a linear and/or rotary actuator), a motor (e.g., a servomotor), and the like or combinations thereof.

Referring again to FIG. 2 , in one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 is linearly movable along one or more axes (e.g., translates along a horizontal axis and/or a vertical axis). As an example, the non-contact heater 112 linearly moves horizontally (e.g., along as X-axis in the directions of directional arrow 362) relative to the composite ply 312 or the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1), such as toward and away from the composite ply 312 and/or the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1), before and/or while the composite ply 312 is being laid down (e.g., formed and compacted) on the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1). As another example, the non-contact heater 112 linearly moves horizontally (e.g., along a Y-axis) relative to the composite ply 312 or the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1), such as along a width of the composite ply 312 and/or along a length of the forming surface 310, before and/or while the composite ply 312 is being laid down on the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1). As another example, the non-contact heater 112 linearly moves vertically (e.g., along a Z-axis in the directions of directional arrow 364) relative to the composite ply 312 or the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1), such as along a length of the composite ply 312 and/or along a height of the forming surface 310, before and/or while the composite ply 312 is being laid down on the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1). As another example, the non-contact heater 112 linearly moves off-axis (e.g., in the directions of directional arrow 366) relative to composite ply 312 and/or the forming surface 310 before and/or while the composite ply 312 is being laid down.

Referring still to FIG. 2 , in one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 is rotationally movable along one or more axes (e.g., rotates about a horizontal axis and/or a vertical axis). As an example, the non-contact heater 112 rotationally moves about a horizontal axis relative to the composite ply 312 and/or the forming surface 310 (e.g., in the direction of directional arrow 344) before and/or while the composite ply 312 is being laid down.

For the purpose of the present disclosure, the phrases laying down the composite ply 312, laying up the composite ply 312, and similar terms generally refer to positioning (e.g., placing) the composite ply 312 on the forming surface 310, forming the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310, and/or compacting the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310. Generally, laying up refers to a composite laminate being laid-up via the act of building up the composite laminate (e.g., a “lay-up”) in a ply-by-ply manner. Generally, laying down refers to a composite laminate being laid down via the act of laying a piece of a ply or plies down onto a surface of a tool or mold or down on previous laid down ply.

As such and unless explicitly stated otherwise, for the purpose of the present disclosure, the phrases laying down the composite ply 312 on the forming surface 310, laying up the composite ply 312 on the forming surface 310, positioning (e.g., placing) the composite ply 312 on the forming surface 310, forming the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310, compacting the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310, and similar phrases include: (1) a situation where the composite ply 312 is positioned, formed, and/or compacted directly against the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 ); or (2) a situation where the composite ply 312 (e.g., subsequent composite ply) is positioned, formed, and/or compacted against the forming surface 310 of the prior formed composite ply 312-1, which has been previously positioned, formed, and/or compacted (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4 ).

Referring to FIG. 3 , the composite ply 312 includes a first ply surface 330 and a second ply surface 332. The second ply surface 332 is opposite to the first ply surface 330. In one or more examples, at a beginning of a forming process, the composite ply 312 is placed or positioned on or over forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 such that at least a portion of the second ply surface 332 of the composite ply 312 is in contact with at least a portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308. The forming surface 310 is established by a surface of the forming tool 308. The non-contact heater 112 is positioned to locally heat the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 ahead of the forming feature 104. The forming feature 104 is positioned in contact with the first ply surface 330 of the composite ply 312. The non-contact heater 112 moves over the portion 350 of the composite ply 312, leading the forming feature 104, to locally heat the portion 350 of the composite ply 312. The forming feature 104 moves (e.g., sweeps) across the first ply surface 330 of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312, trailing the non-contact heater 112, to sweep the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over a portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308. As the forming feature 104 sweeps the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310, the forming feature 104 compacts the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 and forms the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308.

The above process is repeated a number of times to lay down a number of composite plies 312 to fabricate the composite laminate 328 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1 ) on the forming tool 308.

Referring to FIG. 4 , in one or more examples, after forming the prior formed composite ply 312-1, the composite ply 312 (e.g., an additional, subsequent, or successive composite ply) is placed or positioned on or over the forming surface 310 of the prior formed composite ply 312-1 (e.g., and, thus, over the forming tool 308) such that at least a portion of the second ply surface 332 of the composite ply 312 is in contact with at least a portion of the forming surface 310 of the prior formed composite ply 312-1. The forming surface 310 is established by the first ply surface 330 of the prior formed composite ply 312-1. The non-contact heater 112 is positioned to locally heat the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 ahead of the forming feature 104. The forming feature 104 is positioned in contact with the first ply surface 330 of the composite ply 312. The non-contact heater 112 moves over the portion 350 of the composite ply 312, leading the forming feature 104, to locally heat the portion 350 of the composite ply 312. The forming feature 104 moves (e.g., sweeps) across the first ply surface 330 of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312, trailing the non-contact heater 112, to sweep the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 of the prior formed composite ply 312-1. As the forming feature 104 sweeps the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310, the forming feature 104 compacts the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 of the prior formed composite ply 312-1 and forms the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 of the prior formed composite ply 312-1.

Referring again to FIGS. 2-4 , in one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 is positioned to locally heat the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 ahead of the forming feature 104 before and/or while the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 by the forming feature 104. As described above, locally heating the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 prepares the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 for formation over the forming surface 310, such as to improve drapability of the composite ply 312 and/or improve adhesion of the composite ply 312 to the forming surface 310.

Referring still to FIGS. 2-4 , in one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 is positioned to heat the forming surface 310 before and/or while the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 by the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 locally heats the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 ). In one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 locally heats the forming surface 310 of the prior formed composite ply 312-1 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4 ). Locally heating the forming surface 310 prepares the forming surface 310 for formation of the composite ply 312, such as to improve adhesion of the composite ply 312 to the forming surface 310. Locally heating the forming surface 310 may be particularly beneficial when the forming surface 310 is established by the prior formed composite ply 312-1.

In one or more examples, the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is locally heated by the non-contact heater 112 for up to approximately 1 minute per indirect heating operation. In one or more examples, the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 (of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1) by the forming feature 104 immediately after up to approximately 1 minute of heating. In such examples, an entire heating and forming operation for the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 may not exceed approximately 3 to 4 minutes.

In one or more examples, in which the composite ply 312 is a multi-axial non-crimp fabric (MA-NCF), the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is heated to a forming temperature of approximately 320° F.+/−10° F., such as approximately 325° F.+/−5° F. However, in other examples, in which the composite ply 312 includes different composite materials, other forming temperatures are applicable. It is understood that the forming temperature may be, at least partially, dependent on a tacking temperature of the subcomponents of the composite ply 312, such as the toughening veil and knit thread of the multi-axial non-crimp fabric, the resin matrix material of the pre-preg, and the like. In such examples, the composite materials of the composite ply 312 (e.g., the toughening veil and/or knit thread, the fiber reinforcement, the resin matrix, and the like) may vary depending upon a particular application of the composite structure 314 being manufactured.

In one or more examples, indirect local heating of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 begins immediately after the composite ply 312 enters a forming cell (e.g., a manufacturing cell or station located in a manufacturing environment 318). Heating continues until the forming feature 104 contacts the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 being formed. In one or more examples, the heating operation continues until the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is heated to the forming temperature and the forming operation occurs immediately thereafter. In one or more examples, the forming feature 104 may serve as a heat sink that sufficiently cools the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 after it is formed into place, as will be described in more detail below. In these examples, the forming operation is timed such that the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is immediately cooled by the forming feature 104 as (or immediately after) the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is formed into place on the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1).

In one or more examples, a target for the forming temperature of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 to be heated is a minimum forming temperature of approximately 310° F. (154° C.) and a maximum forming temperature of approximately 330° F. (165° C.). With the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 heated to the forming temperature (e.g., between 310° F. and 330° F., the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1). In one or more examples, during forming (e.g., while the composite ply 312 is under pressure) or immediately after forming (e.g., while the composite ply 312 is under pressure), the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is cooled, such as cooled below approximately 300° F. (148° C.) or, more ideally, below approximately 290° F. (143° C.). Cooling the composite ply 312 after formation can improve the ability of the composite ply 312 to remain in the formed shape on the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed ply 312-1) after formation and can beneficially increase fabrication speed of the composite laminate 328.

In one or more examples, the portion of the composite ply 312 being heated by the non-contact heater 112 (e.g., portion 350) is any section or region of a full-length of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the portion of the composite ply 312 being heated by the non-contact heater 112 (e.g., portion 350) is an entirety of the full-length of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the portion of the composite ply 312 being heated by the non-contact heater 112 (e.g., portion 350) may be as small as approximately 0.125 inch (3.175 millimeters) in length. In one or more examples, the portion of the composite ply 312 being heated by the non-contact heater 112 (e.g., portion 350) may be up to approximately 2 inches (50 millimeters), such as up to approximately 5 inches (127 millimeters), such as up to approximately 12 inches (304 millimeters), or more in length. In one or more examples, the portion of the composite ply 312 being heated by the non-contact heater 112 (e.g., portion 350) may be as long as an entirety of the composite structure 314 being formed, such as 5 feet (1.5 meters), 10 feet (3 meters), 25 feet (7.5 meters), 55 feet (17 meters), or longer, for example, when the composite structure 314 is a wing spar.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 , in one or more examples, the forming feature 104 includes a body 108 and an interface surface 146. The body 108 takes the form of any forming member suitable for or capable of forming the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 and compacting the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310. The interface surface 146 contacts the composite ply 312 during compaction and formation of the composite ply 312.

Referring again to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the forming feature 104 (e.g., the body 108) includes, or takes the form of, a bladder 118. The bladder 118 is inflatable. As such, the bladder 118 may also be referred to as an inflatable bladder. The bladder 118 is configured to passively follow contours of the forming surface 310 to apply the compaction force 144 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 ) that is substantially constant. The bladder 118 conforms to the contours (e.g., concave or convex profiles) of the forming surface 310 (e.g., of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1). In one or more examples, a profile (e.g., a cross-sectional shape) of the bladder 118 and/or an angular orientation of the bladder 118 are manipulated using one end effector 102. For example, the end effector 102 may control a diameter, geometry, and/or surface profile of the bladder 118.

Referring still to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the forming feature 104 (e.g., the body 108) includes, or takes the form of, a wiper 120. The wiper 120 has any suitable geometry and/or stiffness depending on the application of the forming feature 104. The wiper 120 is configured to passively follow contours of the forming surface 310 to apply the compaction force 144 that is substantially constant. The wiper 120 conforms to the contours (e.g., concave or convex profiles) of the forming surface 310.

Referring still to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the forming feature 104 (e.g., the body 108) includes, or takes the form of, a finger 122. The finger 122 has any suitable geometry and/or stiffness depending on the application of the forming feature 104. The finger 122 is configured to passively follow contours of the forming surface 310 to apply the compaction force 144 that is substantially constant. The finger 122 conforms to the contours (e.g., concave or convex profiles) of the forming surface 310.

In other examples, the forming feature 104 includes, or takes the form of, any one of various other forming features having various shapes, geometries, and/or configurations. For example, the body 108 of the forming feature 104 may be a bead of material, such as a bead of silicone, rubber, and the like.

Referring still to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the forming feature 104 is made of any material that is suitable for contact with the composite ply 312 in order to form the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 and compact the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310. In one or more examples, the forming feature 104 is made of a material that is capable of withstanding the heat generated by and transferring from the non-contact heater 112 to the composite ply 312 when the forming feature 104 is in contact with the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the forming feature 104 is made of a material that is flexible.

In one or more examples, the forming feature 104 is made of natural or synthetic rubber. In one or more examples, the forming feature 104 is made of a fluoroelastomer (e.g., fluorocarbon-based synthetic rubber). In one or more examples, the forming feature 104 is made of silicone. In one or more examples, the forming feature 104 (e.g., the bladder 118) is made of a high temperature flexible material that is capable of withstanding temperatures in the range of approximately 800° F. (426° C.), such as a metal braided tube or an aramid, a para-aramid, or other synthetic fiber (e.g., Kevlar®). Other materials for the forming feature 104 are also contemplated. In one or more examples, the forming feature 104 is made of a combination of various materials.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 , in one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 includes a first non-contact heating element 126 and a second non-contact heating element 148. In one or more examples, the first non-contact heating element 126 indirectly heats the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 from a first heating direction (e.g., in the direction of directional arrows 160). In one or more examples, the second non-contact heating element 148 indirectly heats the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 from a second heating direction (e.g., in the direction of directional arrows 162).

In one or more examples, the first heating direction and the second heating direction are generally opposite to each other. In one or more examples, the first non-contact heating element 126 and the second non-contact heating element 148 generally locally heat the same portion or region (e.g., portion 350) of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the first non-contact heating element 126 and the second non-contact heating element 148 locally heat opposing surfaces or opposite sides of approximately the same portion or region (e.g., portion 350) of the composite ply 312. As an example, the first non-contact heating element 126 indirectly heats the first ply surface 330 of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 and the second non-contact heating element 148 indirectly heats the second ply surface 332 of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312, opposite the first non-contact heating element 126. In one or more examples, the first heating direction and/or the second heating direction are adjustable such that the first non-contact heating element 126 and the second non-contact heating element 148 can direct heat to a desired portion or region (e.g., portion 350) of the composite ply 312.

In one or more examples, the first non-contact heating element 126 indirectly heats the first ply surface 330 of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 and the second non-contact heating element 148 indirectly heats the second ply surface 332 of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 to approximately the same temperature. In one or more examples, the first non-contact heating element 126 indirectly heats the first ply surface 330 of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 and the second non-contact heating element 148 indirectly heats the second ply surface 332 of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 to different temperatures.

Referring still to FIGS. 3 and 4 , in one or more examples, the second non-contact heating element 148 indirectly heats the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 ) or of the prior formed composite ply 312-1 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4 ) from a third heating direction (e.g., in the direction of directional arrows 168). Alternatively, in one or more examples, the non-contact heater 112 may include one or more additional non-contact heating elements dedicated to heating the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1.

In one or more examples, the heater-movement mechanism 158 is coupled to the first non-contact heating element 126 and to the second non-contact heating element 148. The heater-movement mechanism 158 selectively and independently moves and positions each one of the first non-contact heating element 126 and the second non-contact heating element 148. Alternatively, the composite forming apparatus 100 includes more than one heater-movement mechanism 158, each one being dedicated to one of the first non-contact heating element 126 and the second non-contact heating element 148. In one or more examples, the first heating direction, the second heating direction and/or the third heating direction are adjustable by selectively moving and/or positioning a corresponding one of the first non-contact heating element 126 and the second non-contact heating element 148 relative to the composite ply 312 and/or the forming surface 310 using the heater-movement mechanism 158.

In one or more examples, the first non-contact heating element 126 is, includes, or takes the form of the radiant heater 114 or the convection heater 116. In one or more examples, the second non-contact heating element 148 is, includes, or takes the form of the radiant heater 114 or the convection heater 116. In one or more examples, the first non-contact heating element 126 and the second non-contact heating element 148 are the same type of non-contact heater. In one or more examples, the first non-contact heating element 126 and the second non-contact heating element 148 are different types of non-contact heaters.

Referring still to FIGS. 3 and 4 , in one or more examples, the first non-contact heating element 126 is positioned to heat the first ply surface 330 of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 ahead of the forming feature 104 before and/or while the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 by the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the second non-contact heating element 148 is positioned to heat the second ply surface 332 of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 ahead of the forming feature 104 before and/or while the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 by the forming feature 104. The first ply surface 330 of the composite ply 312 faces away from the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. The forming feature 104 contacts the first ply surface 330 of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312. The second ply surface 332 of the composite ply 312 faces the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1.

Referring to FIG. 4 , in one or more examples, the second non-contact heating element 148 is positioned to heat the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 ahead of the forming feature 104 before and/or while the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 by the forming feature 104.

Referring again to FIGS. 1-4 , in one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 includes a ply support member 106. The ply support member 106 is movable (e.g., linearly and/or rotationally) relative to the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 and relative to the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the ply support member 106 moves with the end effector 102 and/or the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the ply support member 106 moves independent of the end effector 102 and/or the forming feature 104. The ply support member 106 supports the portion 350 of the composite ply 312.

In one or more examples, the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is a portion or section of the composite ply 312 that extends beyond an edge 316 of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is a portion or section of the composite ply 312 that has yet to be formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. For example, the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 extends or is cantilevered past the edge 316 of the forming surface 310 or extends away from the forming surface 310 and is supported by the ply support member 106 before and/or while the composite ply 312 is formed and compacted on the forming surface 310 using the forming feature 104.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 , in one or more examples, the first non-contact heating element 126 is coupled to the end effector 102 and is movable relative to the end effector 102, such as by the heater-movement mechanism 158. In one or more examples, the first non-contact heating element 126 is coupled to the forming feature 104 and is movable relative to the forming feature 104, such as by the heater-movement mechanism 158. In one or more examples, the second non-contact heating element 148 is coupled to the ply support member 106 and is movable relative to the ply support member 106, such as by the heater-movement mechanism 158. In one or more examples, one or both of the first non-contact heating element 126 and the second non-contact heating element 148 or any additional non-contact heating elements of the non-contact heater 112 are independent of the end effector 102, the forming feature 104, and/or the ply support member 106.

Referring to FIGS. 2-4 , in one or more examples, the ply support member 106 includes a ply support plate 164. The ply support plate 164 includes a ply support surface 152 that supports the portion 350 of the composite ply 312.

In one or more examples, the ply support plate 164 is selectively movable relative to the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, the ply support plate 164 is selectively movable relative to the end effector 102 and/or the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 or the ply support member 106 includes a support-member-movement mechanism 166. The support-member-movement mechanism 166 selectively moves and positions the ply support plate 164. In one or more examples, the ply support plate 164 is coupled to the end effector 102, such as by the support-member-movement mechanism 166.

Referring to FIG. 2 , in one or more examples, the ply support plate 164 is linearly movable along one or more axes (e.g., translates along a horizontal axis and/or a vertical axis). As an example, the ply support plate 164 linearly moves horizontally along an X-axis, such as toward and away from the forming surface 310 (e.g., in the directions of directional arrow 356), while the composite ply 312 is being laid down (e.g., formed and compacted). As another example, the ply support plate 154 linearly moves horizontally along a Y-axis relative to the forming surface 310, such as along a length of the forming surface 310, while the composite ply 312 is being laid down. As another example, the ply support plate 154 linearly moves vertically along a Z-axis relative to the forming surface 310, such as along a height of the forming surface 310 (e.g., in the directions of directional arrow 358), while the composite ply 312 is being laid down.

Referring still to FIG. 2 , in one or more examples, the ply support plate 154 is rotationally movable along one or more axes (e.g., rotates about a horizontal axis and/or a vertical axis). As an example, the ply support plate 154 rotationally moves about a horizontal axis relative to the forming surface 310 (e.g., as illustrated by directional arrow 360) while the composite ply 312 is being laid down.

Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 4 , in one or more examples, the ply support member 106 heats (e.g., pre-heats) the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 via conduction. In one or more examples, the ply support member 106 also includes a heating element 150. The heating element 150 is coupled to the ply support plate 164 and/or is in thermal communication with the ply support plate 164 to heat the ply support surface 152. Heat is transferred from the ply support plate 164 to the portion of the composite ply 312 via conduction. In one or more examples, the heating element 150 is a resistive heater. In one or more examples, the heating element 150 is an induction heater. Generally, pre-heating the composite ply 312 using the ply support plate 164 is performed when the composite ply 312 is made of high temperature thermoplastic materials.

Referring still to FIGS. 3 and 4 , in one or more examples, one or more additional heaters 370 may be used to heat a portion (e.g., portion 350) of the composite ply 312 that is supported by the ply support member 106. For example, the additional heater 370 may be positioned over the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 such that the composite ply 312 is positioned between the additional heater 370 and the ply support plate 164. In these examples, the ply support plate 164 transfers heat to the second ply surface 332 of the composite ply 312 via conduction and the additional heater 370 transfers heat to the first ply surface 330 via conduction. Examples of the additional heater 370 include, but are not limited to, a heat blanket, a heat plate, another suitable conductive-type heater, and the like. Generally, pre-heating the composite ply 312 using the additional heater 370 is performed when the composite ply 312 is made of high temperature thermoplastic materials.

Referring still to FIGS. 3 and 4 , additionally, in one or more examples, an entirety of the composite ply 312 is heated (e.g., pre-heated) before the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. For example, the manufacturing environment 318, surrounding the composite ply 312, may be heated to increase the temperature of the composite ply 312 before and/or while the composite ply 312 is formed using the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the system 300 includes an environment heater 320 that heats the manufacturing environment 318 and, thus, the composite ply 312. Generally, pre-heating the composite ply 312 using the environment heater 320 is performed when the composite ply 312 is made of high temperature thermoplastic materials. In such examples, the manufacturing environment 318 may be heated to approximately 400° F. (204° C.) using the environment heater 320.

Referring still to FIGS. 3 and 4 , in one or more examples, at least a portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 is heated by the forming tool 308. In one or more examples, the forming tool 308 includes at least one tool-heater 372. The tool-heater 372 is coupled to the forming tool 308, such as within the forming tool 308, and/or is in thermal communication with the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 to heat the forming surface 310. In one or more examples, the tool-heater 372 is a resistive heater. In one or more examples, the tool-heater 372 is an induction heater. Other examples of the tool-heater 372 include, but are not limited to, an IR heater, a laser heater, a Xenon flash heater, and the like. In one or more examples, the tool-heater 372 heats the forming surface 310 and the forming surface 310 thereby heats a portion of the composite ply 312, opposite the forming feature 104.

Referring to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, in one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 cools the composite ply 312 after the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is compacted and formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 actively cools at least a portion of the composite ply 312 via at least one of conduction or convection. In one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 passively cools at least a portion of the composite ply 312 via conduction.

In one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 passively cools the composite ply 312 via conduction after the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. For example, the forming feature 104 is swept over the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 after the composite ply 312 is formed and compacted over the forming surface 310. In these examples, the forming feature 104 passively cools the composite ply 312 after the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 via conduction. Heat is transferred from the composite ply 312 to forming feature 104 via conduction.

In one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 actively cools the composite ply 312, via convection or conduction, after the composite ply 312 is compacted and formed on the forming surface 310. In one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 includes a cooling element 124. The cooling element 124 cools the composite ply 312 after the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 by the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the cooling element 124 is positioned relative to the forming feature 104 and/or the composite ply 312 to cool the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 that was formed and compacted over the forming surface 310 by the forming feature 104.

In one or more examples, the cooling element 124 is located proximate to (e.g., at or near) the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the cooling element 124 is movable (e.g., linearly, rotationally, and/or off-axis) relative to the forming feature 104, relative to the end effector 102, and/or relative to forming surface 310. In one or more examples, the cooling element 124 is coupled to the end effector 102. In one or more examples, the cooling element 124 is coupled to the ply support member 106. In one or more examples, the cooling element 124 is coupled to the forming feature 104.

In one or more examples, the cooling element 124 is a non-contact cooling element that actively cools at least the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 via convection. An example of the cooling element 124 includes, but is not limited to, a blower that directs a gas (e.g., air) over the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the gas is cooled (e.g., a cold air blower). In these examples, the cooling element 124 is positioned relative to the composite ply 312 and/or is swept over the composite ply 312 after composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 by the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the cooling element 124 follows or trails the forming feature 104. In these examples, heat is removed from the composite ply 312 via convection.

In one or more examples, the cooling element 124 is a contact cooling element that actively cools at least a portion of the composite ply 312 via conduction. Examples of the cooling element 124 include, but are not limited to, a heat exchanger or chiller that removes heat from the composite ply 312. In these examples, the cooling element 124 is positioned relative to (e.g., in contact with) at least the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 and/or is moved (e.g., swept) over the composite ply 312 after the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 by the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the cooling element 124 follows or trails the forming feature 104. In these examples, heat is transferred from the composite ply 312 to cooling element 124 via conduction.

In one or more examples, the cooling element 124 is coupled to, is integrated within, or is otherwise in thermal communication with the forming feature 104. The cooling element 124 cools (e.g., removes heat from) the forming features 104. For example, the cooling element 124 is activated and the forming feature 104 is swept over the composite ply 312 after the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310. In these examples, the forming feature 104 actively cools the composite ply 312 after the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 via conduction. In these examples, heat is transferred from the composite ply 312 to forming feature 104 via conduction, and heat is then removed from the forming feature 104 using the cooling element 124.

In one or more examples, the cooling element 124 is in direct thermal communication with the forming feature 104 to cool the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the cooling element 124 is located within the forming feature 104. For example, the cooling element 124 is located inside of the body 108 of the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the cooling element 124 is situated in an interior of the body 108. Other configurations and constructions of the body 108 of the forming feature 104 and the cooling element 124 are also contemplated. In one or more examples, the cooling element 124 is, includes, or takes the form of a heat exchanger that passes a gas or liquid through the body 108 of the forming feature 104 to remove heat from the forming feature 104.

Referring still to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 includes a temperature sensor 130. The temperature sensor 130 detects a temperature of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the temperature sensor 130 is a contact temperature sensor 132, such as, but not limited to, a thermocouple, a thermistor, a resistance temperature detector (RTD), and the like. In one or more examples, the temperature sensor 130 is a non-contact temperature sensor 134, such as, but not limited to, an infrared (IR) thermometer, a thermal imager, a radiation pyrometer, and the like.

Referring to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 includes a control unit 136. The control unit 136 is coupled to the non-contact heater 112 (e.g., the first non-contact heating element 126 and the second non-contact heating element 148) and to the temperature sensor 130. The control unit 136 selectively controls the non-contact heater 112 to control a temperature of the composite ply 312 during formation of the composite laminate 328. In one or more examples, the control unit 136 selectively controls the non-contact heater 112 and, thus, the temperature of the composite ply 312, based on at least one of a temperature signal 138 provided by the temperature sensor 130, an amperage supplied to the non-contact heater 112, and a heat output from the non-contact heater 112.

In one or more examples, control of the non-contact heater 112 is open loop or closed loop. For example, the non-contact heater 112 may be heated to a specified power output or heat output or be controlled with closed loop temperature feedback control. As an example, the control unit 136 may operate to control temperature using a control loop. As an example, the control loop may measure or otherwise utilize the amperage supplied to the non-contact heater 112 or the heat output supplied by the non-contact heater 112 to determine the heat generated by the non-contact heater 112 and/or a temperature of the composite ply 312.

In one or more examples, the temperature feedback control loop may utilize the amperage supplied to the non-contact heater 112, the power or heat output of the non-contact heater 112, and/or the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 130. Such control may help prevent over or under heating to the target temperature of the composite ply 312, for example, between approximately 240° F. (115° C.) and approximately 330° F. (165° C.). Such a feedback control loop may also include a feedback temperature reading of at least the heated locations (e.g., portion 350 as shown in FIGS. 2-4 and/or second portion 352 as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 ) of the composite ply 312, for example, provided by a thermocouple, infrared (IR) camera, or other thermal measurement device (e.g., temperature sensor 130), a feedback power output or heat output reading from non-contact heater 112, a feedback amperage reading to the non-contact heater 112, and the like.

In one or more examples, the thermal measurement device (e.g., temperature sensor 130) may be shielded from interference with the non-contact heating (e.g., radiation or convection). Such shielding may be achieved by a physical shield, a polarizer or other filter, or by measuring a side of the material opposite the side being heated. In one or more examples, polarized IR heat may heat the composite ply 312 with a cross polarized sensor. While 240° F. (115° C.) to 330° F. (165° C.) is a preferred temperature range for some example materials, a material specific heating temperature range may be as low as approximately 100° F. (38° C.) and as high as approximately 450° F. (232° C.) or even as high as approximately 800° F. (426° C.).

Referring to FIG. 2 , in one or more examples, composite forming apparatus 100 includes a stomp foot 324. The stomp foot 324 is movable relative to the end effector 102. The stomp foot 324 presses the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 before and/or while the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 using the forming feature 104.

In one or more examples, the stomp foot 324 moves linearly along an axis (e.g., vertically along a Z-axis) to press and hold (e.g., clamp) the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, the stomp foot 324 includes one of a flat profile or a curved profile, depending on the geometry of the forming surface 310.

In one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 includes more than one stomp foot 324 that engage the composite ply 312 at a plurality of discrete locations on the forming surface 310. In one or more examples, the stomp foot 324 is continuous and/or an elongate member that engages a continuous portion of the composite ply 312 on the forming surface 310 (e.g., over a web of the forming tool 308).

Referring still to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 includes a sensor 140. In one or more examples, the sensor 140 is a pressure sensor, a load cell, a strain gauge, or the like that detects a force or a load applied to the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the sensor 140 is a position sensor that detects a relative position of the forming feature 104.

In one or more examples, the control unit 136 is coupled to (e.g., is in communication with) the end effector 102 and the sensor 140. The control unit 136 selectively controls movement of the end effector 102 based on a sensor signal 142 provided by the sensor 140 to appropriately position the forming feature 104 such that the compaction force 144 is applied to the composite ply 312 using the forming feature 104 at a constant magnitude.

Referring still to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes a movement mechanism 302, the composite forming apparatus 100, and the forming tool 308. The composite forming apparatus 100 is coupled to the movement mechanism 302. The movement mechanism 302 includes any suitable programmable machine that selectively moves and positions the composite forming apparatus 100 in three-dimensional space. In one or more examples, the movement mechanism 302 includes, or takes the form of, a robotic arm, an overhead gantry, and the like. The movement mechanism 302 selectively positions and moves the composite forming apparatus 100 relative to the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 to form and compact the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 using the forming feature 104. The composite forming apparatus 100 (e.g., the non-contact heater 112) actively heats the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 via at least one of radiation and convection before and/or while the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 using the forming feature 104.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 5-7 , in one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes the movement mechanism 302, the end effector 102, the forming feature 104, and the non-contact heater 112. The end effector 102 is coupled to the movement mechanism 302. The forming feature 104 is coupled to the end effector 102. The non-contact heater 112 is positioned relative to the forming tool 308 and/or the forming feature 104. The end effector 102 selectively positions and moves the forming feature 104 relative to the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 to compact or compress (e.g., apply the compaction force 144 to) the composite ply 312. The movement mechanism 302 selectively positions and moves the end effector 102 relative to the forming surface 310 to form the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over at least a portion of the forming surface 310 using the forming feature 104. The non-contact heater 112 locally heats the the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 via at least one of radiation and convection.

Referring to FIGS. 5-8 , in one or more examples, the movement mechanism 302 moves and selectively positions the end effector 102 along a plurality of movement axes, including a first axis 338, a second axis 340 that is perpendicular to the first axis 338, and a third axis 342 that is perpendicular to the first axis 338 and the second axis 340. In the illustrative examples, the first axis 338 (e.g., a Z-axis) is approximately vertical and the second axis 340 (e.g., an X-axis) and the third axis 342 (e.g., a Y-axis) are approximately horizontal. For the purpose of the present disclosure, movement along a referenced axis refers to linear movement in a direction that is parallel to the referenced axis. For the purpose of the present disclosure, rotational movement about a referenced axis refers to rotation about an axis that is parallel to or coincident with the referenced axis.

In one or more examples, the movement mechanism 302 includes a frame 334. In one or more examples, the frame 334 is generally rectangular in shape. In one or more examples, the frame 334 is an overhead frame and the forming tool 308 is positioned under the frame 334 during the layup operation. Generally, the frame 334 defines the first axis 338, the second axis 340, and the third axis 342. In one or more examples, the movement mechanism 302 includes a carriage 336. The carriage 336 is coupled to the frame 334. The frame 334 surrounds the carriage 336. In one or more examples, the carriage 336 has a shape that is generally the same as the frame 334 but is smaller such that the carriage 336 nests within the frame 334.

In one or more examples, the carriage 336 is movable relative to the frame 334. In one or more examples, the carriage 336 is pivotably movable and/or rotationally movable about at least one of the first axis 338, the second axis 340, and/or the third axis 342 (e.g., in the directions of directional arrows 348 in FIG. 7 ). In one or more examples, the carriage 336 is linearly movable along the first axis 338, the second axis 340, and/or the third axis 342. In one or more examples, the end effector 102 is coupled to the carriage 336. Movement of the carriage 336 moves and selectively positions the end effector 102 relative to the forming tool 308 to accommodate the geometry or configuration of the forming surface 310 and achieve a best fit position for the end effector 102.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6 , in one or more examples, the end effector 102 is movable relative to the movement mechanism 302, such as relative to the carriage 336. In one or more examples, the end effector 102 is linearly movable relative to the movement mechanism 302, such as along at least one of the first axis 338, the second axis 340 and/or the third axis 342 (e.g., in the directions of directional arrow 362 and directional arrow 364 shown in FIG. 2 ) or off-axis (e.g., in the directions of directional arrow 366 shown in FIG. 2 ). In one or more examples, the end effector 102 is rotationally movable relative to the movement mechanism 302, such as about at least one of the first axis 338, the second axis 340 and/or the third axis 342 (e.g., in the direction of directional arrow 344 shown in FIGS. 2 and 6 ).

Referring to FIG. 6 , in one or more examples, the composite forming apparatus 100 includes an actuator 110. The actuator 110 is coupled to, or forms a portion of, the end effector 102. In one or more examples, the actuator 110 is, or includes, a linear actuator and the actuator 110 linearly moves the end effector 102 or the forming feature 104 relative to the carriage 336 (e.g., in the directions of directional arrow 362, directional arrow 364 and/or directional arrow 366 shown in FIG. 2 ) to position the forming feature 104 into contact with the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the actuator 110 is, or includes, a rotary actuator and the actuator 110 rotationally moves the end effector 102 or the forming feature 104 relative to the carriage 336 (e.g., in the directions of directional arrow 344 shown in FIGS. 2 and 6 ) to angularly orient the forming feature 104 relative to the forming surface 310 and position the forming feature 104 into contact with the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the actuator 110 is selectively controlled, for example, by the control unit 136, to control the position of the forming feature 104 and, thus, the compaction force 144 applied to the composite ply 312 by the forming feature 104.

In one or more examples, the actuator 110 is any one of various suitable types of controllable actuators. In an example, the actuator 110 is a pneumatic actuator. In an example, the actuator 110 is a hydraulic actuator. In an example, the actuator 110 is a mechanical actuator.

Referring again to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the sensor 140 is coupled to, or is in communication with, the actuator 110. In one or more examples, the sensor 140 detects at least one of a stroke position of the actuator 110 and a force acting on the actuator 110, which is used to determine the position of the forming feature 104 and to control the compaction force 144 for precise forming on the forming surface 310 having a complex geometry or surface contour.

In one or more examples, the control unit 136 is, or includes, a numerical control (NC) unit. In these examples, the control unit 136 operates in accordance with a numerical control program and in conjunction with data (e.g., collected, received, and analyzed) from the sensor 140 to determine proper movement and position of the end effector 102 relative to the forming tool 308.

Referring to FIGS. 1-4 , in one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes the ply support member 106 that is movable relative to the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 and relative to the composite forming apparatus 100 to support the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 ).

In one or more examples, the ply support member 106 is coupled to the end effector 102. In these examples, the ply support member 106 is movable with the end effector 102, such as by the carriage 336, relative to the forming tool 308. In these examples, the ply support member 106 may also be movable relative to the end effector 102, such as via the support-member-movement mechanism 166.

In one or more examples, the ply support member 106 is coupled to the movement mechanism 302, such as to the carriage 336. In these examples, the ply support member 106 is movable relative to the carriage 336, relative to the end effector 102, and relative to the forming tool 308. In one or more examples, the support-member-movement mechanism 166 is dedicated to the ply support member 106 such that the ply support member 106 moves and is selectively positioned relative to the forming tool 308 independent of the carriage 336 and/or the end effector 102.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 5, 6, 8 and 9 , in one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes a second composite forming apparatus 200. In one or more examples, the second composite forming apparatus 200 and composite forming system 300 indirectly heat a localized region (e.g., second portion 352 as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 ) of the composite ply 312 immediately before and/or during compaction and formation of the composite ply 312 on the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. For example, the second composite forming apparatus 200 and composite forming system 300 locally heat the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 to the forming temperature prior to compacting and/or forming the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1.

In one or more examples, the second composite forming apparatus 200 is coupled to the movement mechanism 302. The second composite forming apparatus 200 is spaced away from the composite forming composite forming apparatus 100. The movement mechanism 302 selectively positions and moves the second composite forming apparatus 200 to form and compact the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310. The second composite forming apparatus 200 actively heats the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 via at least one of radiation and convection before and/or while the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1.

Examples of the second composite forming apparatus 200 are substantially the same as the examples of the composite forming apparatus 100 described herein above and illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 . In one or more examples, the second composite forming apparatus 200 includes a second end effector 202, a second forming feature 204, and a second non-contact heater 212.

Referring still to FIGS. 1, 5, 6, 8 and 9 , in one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes the second end effector 202, the second forming feature 204, and the second non-contact heater 212. Examples of the second end effector 202, the second forming feature 204, and the second non-contact heater 212 are substantially the same as the examples of the end effector 102, the forming feature 104, and the non-contact heater 112 described herein above and illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 .

In one or more examples, the second end effector 202 is coupled to the movement mechanism 302, such as to the carriage 336. The second forming feature 204 is coupled to the second end effector 202. The second non-contact heater 212 is positioned relative to the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 and/or relative to the second forming feature 204. The second end effector 202 selectively moves and positions the second forming feature 204 relative to the forming surface 310 to compact or compress (e.g., apply a second compaction force 244 as shown in FIG. 9 ) the composite ply 312. The movement mechanism 302 selectively moves and positions the second end effector 202 relative to the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 to form the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 over at least a second portion of the forming surface 310 using the second forming feature 204.

The second non-contact heater 212 heats the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 via at least one of radiation and convection before and/or while the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310. In one or more examples, the second non-contact heater 212 is positioned relative to the second forming feature 204 such that the second non-contact heater 212 locally heats the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 directly ahead of the second forming feature 204.

Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9 , in one or more examples, the second non-contact heater 212 is positioned relative to the second forming feature 204 such that the second non-contact heater 212 locally heats the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 directly ahead of (e.g., downstream of) the second forming feature 204. In one or more examples, the second non-contact heater 212 moves, or sweeps, over the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 to locally heat at least the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 to a desired forming temperature before formation of the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 using the second forming feature 204. In one or more examples, the second non-contact heater 212 moves (e.g., translates) with the second forming feature 204, for example, in the forming direction (e.g., in the direction of directional arrow 376 shown in FIG. 8 ), such that the second non-contact heater 212 locally heats the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 relative to the second forming feature 204 and directly before of the second forming feature 204 compacts and/or forms the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. As such, in one or more examples, the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 being locally heated by the second non-contact heater 212 is defined relative to the second forming feature 204 and is generally located in front of, ahead of, or downstream of the second forming feature 204.

Referring to FIG. 9 , in one or more examples, the second non-contact heater 212 includes a third non-contact heating element 226 and a fourth non-contact heating element 248. In one or more examples, the third non-contact heating element 226 indirectly heats the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 from a fourth heating direction (e.g., as indicated by directional arrows 260). In one or more examples, the fourth non-contact heating element 248 indirectly heats the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 from a fifth heating direction (e.g., as indicated by directional arrows 262).

In one or more examples, the third direction and the fourth direction are generally opposite to each other. In one or more examples, the third non-contact heating element 226 and the fourth non-contact heating element 248 generally locally heat the same portion or region (e.g., second portion 354) of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the fourth heating direction and/or the fifth heating direction are adjustable such that the third non-contact heating element 226 and the fourth non-contact heating element 248 can direct heat to a desired portion or region (e.g., second portion 352) of the composite ply 312.

Referring still to FIG. 9 , in one or more examples, the fourth non-contact heating element 248 indirectly heats the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or of the prior formed composite ply 312-1 from a sixth heating direction (e.g., in the direction of directional arrows 268). Alternatively, in one or more examples, the second non-contact heater 212 may include one or more additional non-contact heating elements dedicated to heating the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1.

Referring again to FIGS. 8 and 9 , in one or more examples, the second composite forming apparatus 200 includes a second heater-movement mechanism 258. The second heater-movement mechanism 258 is coupled to the second non-contact heater 212 and selectively moves and positions the second non-contact heater 212 relative to the forming surface 310, the composite ply 312, and/or the forming feature 104. The second heater-movement mechanism 258 includes any suitable selectively controllable movement device, such as, but not limited to, an articulating arm (e.g., a robotic arm), an actuator (e.g., a linear and/or rotary actuator), a motor (e.g., a servomotor), and the like or combinations thereof.

In one or more examples, the second heater-movement mechanism 258 is coupled to the third non-contact heating element 226 and to the fourth non-contact heating element 248. The second heater-movement mechanism 258 selectively and independently moves and positions each one of the third non-contact heating element 226 and the fourth non-contact heating element 248. Alternatively, the second composite forming apparatus 200 includes more than one second heater-movement mechanism 258, each one being dedicated to one of the third non-contact heating element 226 and the fourth non-contact heating element 248. In one or more examples, the fourth heating directions, the fifth heating direction and/or the sixth heating directions are adjustable by selectively moving and/or positioning a corresponding one of the third non-contact heating element 226 and the fourth non-contact heating element 248 relative to the composite ply 312 and/or the forming surface 310 using the second heater-movement mechanism 258.

Referring to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the third non-contact heating element 226 is, includes, or takes the form of the radiant heater 114 or the convection heater 116. In one or more examples, the fourth non-contact heating element 248 is, includes, or takes the form of the radiant heater 114 or the convection heater 116. In one or more examples, the third non-contact heating element 226 and the fourth non-contact heating element 248 are the same type of non-contact heater. In one or more examples, the third non-contact heating element 226 and the fourth non-contact heating element 248 are different types of non-contact heaters.

Referring again to FIG. 9 , in one or more examples, the third non-contact heating element 226 is positioned to locally heat the first ply surface 330 of the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312, ahead of the second forming feature 204, before the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 by the second forming feature 204. In one or more examples, the fourth non-contact heating element 248 is positioned to locally heat the second ply surface 332 of the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312, ahead of the second forming feature 204, before the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 by the second forming feature 204. The first ply surface 330 of the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 faces away from the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. The second forming feature 204 contacts the first ply surface 330 of the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312. The second ply surface 332 of the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 faces the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1.

In one or more examples, the fourth non-contact heating element 248 is positioned to heat the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1, ahead of the second forming feature 204, before the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310.

Referring still to FIG. 9 , in one or more examples, the second forming feature 204 includes a second body 208 and a second interface surface 246. The second body 208 takes the form of any forming member suitable for or capable of forming the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 and compacting the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310. The second interface surface 246 contacts the composite ply 312 during compaction and formation of the composite ply 312.

Referring again to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the second forming feature 204 (e.g., the second body 208) includes, or takes the form of, the bladder 118. In one or more examples, the second forming feature 204 (e.g., the second body 208) includes, or takes the form of, the wiper 120. In one or more examples, the second forming feature 204 (e.g., the second body 208) includes, or takes the form of, the finger 122. In other examples, the second forming feature 204 includes, or takes the form of, any one of various other forming features having various shapes, geometries, and/or configurations. For example, the second body 208 of the second forming feature 204 may be a bead of material, such as a bead of silicone, rubber, and the like.

In one or more examples, the second forming feature 204 is made of any material that is suitable for contact with the composite ply 312 in order to form the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 and compact the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310. In one or more examples, the second forming feature 204 is made of a material that is capable of withstanding the heat generated by and transferring from the second non-contact heater 212 to the composite ply 312 when the forming feature 104 is in contact with the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the second forming feature 204 is made of a material that is flexible. In one or more examples, the second forming feature 204 is made of natural or synthetic rubber. In one or more examples, the second forming feature 204 is made of a fluoroelastomer (e.g., fluorocarbon-based synthetic rubber). In one or more examples, the second forming feature 204 is made of silicone. Other materials for the second forming feature 204 are also contemplated. In one or more examples, the second forming feature 204 is made of a combination of various materials.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 8 and 9 , in one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes a second ply support member 206. Examples of the second ply support member 206 are substantially the same as the examples of the ply support member 106 described herein above and illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 . In one or more examples, the second ply support member 206 is movable relative to the forming surface 310, for example, by a second support-member-movement mechanism 266. In one or more examples, the second ply support member 206 is movable relative to the second end effector 202 and/or the second forming feature 204, for example, by the second support-member-movement mechanism 266. The second ply support member 206 supports the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312.

In one or more examples, the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is a portion or section of the composite ply 312 that extends beyond a second edge 326 of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is a portion or section of the composite ply 312 that has yet to be formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. For example, the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 extends or is cantilevered past the second edge 326 of the forming surface 310 or extends away from the forming surface 310 and is supported by the second ply support member 206 before and/or while the composite ply 312 is formed and compacted on the forming surface 310 using the second forming feature 204.

Referring to FIG. 9 , in one or more examples, the third non-contact heating element 226 is coupled to the second end effector 202, for example, by the second heater-movement mechanism 258. In one or more examples, the third non-contact heating element 226 is coupled to the second forming feature 204 and is movable relative to the second forming feature 204, for example, by the heater-movement mechanism 158. In one or more examples, the fourth non-contact heating element 248 is coupled to the second ply support member 206, for example, by the second heater-movement mechanism 258. In one or more examples, one or both of the first non-contact heating element 126 and the second non-contact heating element 148 or any additional non-contact heating elements of the second non-contact heater 212 are independent of the end effector 102, the forming feature 104, and/or the ply support member 106.

In one or more examples, the second ply support member 206 includes a second ply support plate 264. The second ply support plate 264 includes a second ply support surface 252 that supports the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312, which extends beyond the second edge 326 of the forming tool 308.

In one or more examples, the second ply support plate 264 is selectively movable relative to the forming surface 310, for example, by the second support-member-movement mechanism 266. In one or more examples, the second ply support plate 264 is movable relative to the second end effector 202 and/or the second forming feature 204, for example, by the second support-member-movement mechanism 266. In one or more examples, the second ply support member 206 is coupled to the second end effector 202, such as by the second support-member-movement mechanism 270.

In one or more examples, the second ply support member 206 heats (e.g., pre-heats) the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 via conduction. In one or more examples, the second ply support member 206 also includes a second heating element 250. The second heating element 250 is coupled to the second ply support plate 264 and/or is in thermal communication with the second ply support plate 264 to heat the second ply support surface 252. Heat is transferred from the second ply support plate 264 to the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 via conduction. In one or more examples, the second heating element 250 is a resistive heater. In one or more examples, the second heating element 250 is an induction heater.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 8 , in one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes the stomp foot 324. In one or more examples, the stomp foot 324 is coupled to the movement mechanism 302, such as to the carriage 336. The stomp foot 324 is movable relative to the movement mechanism 302 to press (e.g., clamp) the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 before and/or while the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 using the forming feature 104 and/or the second forming feature 204.

Referring to FIG. 8 , in one or more examples, the stomp foot 324 is located between the composite forming apparatus 100 (e.g., the end effector 102) and the second composite forming apparatus 200 (e.g., the second end effector 202).

Referring to FIGS. 5, 6 and 8 , in one or more examples, the second end effector 202 is movable relative to the movement mechanism 302, such as relative to the carriage 336. In one or more examples, the second end effector 202 is linearly movable relative to the movement mechanism 302, such as along at least one of the first axis 338, the second axis 340 and/or the third axis 342 and/or off-axis (e.g., in the direction of directional arrow 378, directional arrow 380 and directional arrow 382 shown in FIG. 8 ). In one or more examples, the second end effector 202 is rotationally movable relative to the movement mechanism 302, such as about at least one of the first axis 338, the second axis 340 and/or the third axis 342 (e.g., in the direction of directional arrow 346 shown in FIGS. 6 and 8 ).

Referring to FIG. 6 , in one or more examples, the second composite forming apparatus 200 includes a second actuator 210. The second actuator 210 is coupled to, or forms a portion of, the second end effector 202. In one or more examples, the second actuator 210 is, or includes, a linear actuator and the second actuator 210 linearly moves the second end effector 202 or the second forming feature 204 relative to the carriage 336 to position the second forming feature 204 into contact with the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the second actuator 210 is, or includes, a rotary actuator and the second actuator 210 rotationally moves the second end effector 202 or the second forming feature 204 relative to the carriage 336 to angularly orient the second forming feature 204 relative to the forming tool 308 and position the second forming feature 204 into contact with the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the second actuator 210 is selectively controlled, for example, by the control unit 136, to control the position of the second forming feature 204 and, thus, the second compaction force 244 applied to the composite ply 312 by the second forming feature 204.

Referring again to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the second composite forming apparatus 200 cools (e.g., actively or passively) the composite ply 312 after the composite ply 312 is compacted and formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, active cooling is achieved via at least one of conduction or convection.

In one or more examples, the second composite forming apparatus 200 includes a second cooling element 224. Examples of the second cooling element 224 are substantially the same as the examples of the cooling element 124 described herein above and illustrated in FIG. 1 . The second cooling element 224 cools the composite ply 312 after the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 by the second forming feature 204.

Referring to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the second composite forming apparatus 200 includes a second temperature sensor 230. The second temperature sensor 230 detects a temperature of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the second temperature sensor 230 is the contact temperature sensor 132. In one or more examples, the second temperature sensor 230 is the non-contact temperature sensor 134.

Referring still to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes the control unit 136. The control unit 136 is coupled to (e.g., is in communication with) the non-contact heater 112, the temperature sensor 130, the second non-contact heater 212 and the second temperature sensor 230. The control unit 136 selectively controls the non-contact heater 112 based on at least one of the temperature signal 138 provided by the temperature sensor 130, the amperage supplied to the non-contact heater 112, and the heat or power output from the non-contact heater 112. The control unit 136 selectively controls the second non-contact heater 212 based on at least one of a second temperature signal 238 provided by the second temperature sensor 230, a second amperage supplied to the second non-contact heater 212, and a second heat output from the second non-contact heater 212.

In one or more examples, control of the second non-contact heater 212 is open loop or closed loop. For example, the second non-contact heater 212 may be heated to a specified power output or heat output or be controlled with closed loop temperature feedback control. As an example, the control unit 136 may operate to control temperature using the control loop.

Referring still to FIG. 1 , in one or more examples, the second composite forming apparatus 200 includes a second sensor 240. In one or more examples, the second sensor 240 is a pressure sensor, a load cell, a strain gauge, or the like that detects a force or a load applied to the second forming feature 204. In one or more examples, the second sensor 240 is a position sensor that detects a relative position of the second forming feature 204.

In one or more examples, the control unit 136 is coupled to (e.g., is in communication with) the second end effector 202 and the second sensor 240. The control unit 136 selectively controls movement of the second end effector 202 based on a second sensor signal 242 provided by the second sensor 240 to appropriately position the second forming feature 204 such that the second compaction force 244 is applied to the composite ply 312 using the second forming feature 204 at a constant magnitude.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 10, and 11 , in one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes more than one composite forming apparatus 100, such as a plurality of composite forming apparatuses, (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 10 ). In one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes more than one second composite forming apparatus 200, such as a plurality of second composite forming apparatuses, (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11 ). Each composite forming apparatus 100 is coupled to the movement mechanism 302. Each second composite forming apparatus 200 is coupled to the movement mechanism 302.

Referring to FIG. 10 , in one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes a plurality of end effectors 102, a plurality of forming features 104, and a plurality of non-contact heaters 112. Each one of the plurality of end effectors 102 is coupled to the movement mechanism 302, such as to the carriage 336. Each one of the plurality of forming features 104 is coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of end effectors 102. Each one of the plurality of non-contact heaters 112 is coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of forming features 104. Each one of the plurality of end effectors 102 selectively positions and moves a corresponding one of the plurality of forming features 104 relative to the composite ply 312 to compact (e.g., apply the compaction force 144) the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 using a corresponding one of the plurality of forming features 104. The movement mechanism 302 selectively positions and moves each one of the plurality of end effectors 102 relative to the composite ply 312 or the forming surface 310 to form the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over at least a portion of the forming surface 310 using a corresponding one of the plurality of forming features 104. The plurality of non-contact heaters 112 locally heats the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 via at least one of radiation and convection before the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 by the plurality of forming features (104).

In one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes a plurality of temperature sensors 130. Each one of the plurality of temperature sensors 130 detects a temperature of a corresponding portion of the composite ply 312. The control unit 136 is coupled to (e.g., is in communication with) each one of the plurality of non-contact heaters 112 and each one of the plurality of temperature sensors 130. The control unit 136 selectively controls each one of the plurality of non-contact heaters 112 based on at least one of the temperature signal 138 provided by a corresponding one of the plurality of temperature sensors 130, an amperage supplied to a corresponding one of the plurality of the non-contact heaters 112, and a power output or heat output supplied by a corresponding one of the plurality of non-contact heaters 112.

In one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes a plurality of sensors 140. Each one of the plurality of sensors 140 detects at least one of a force applied to and a relative position of a corresponding one of the plurality of forming features 104. In one or more examples, the control unit 136 is coupled to (e.g., is in communication with) each one of the plurality of end effectors 102 and each one of the plurality of sensors 140. The control unit 136 selectively controls movement of each one of the plurality of end effectors 102 based on the sensor signal 142 provided by a corresponding one of the plurality of sensors 140 to apply the compaction force 144 at a constant magnitude to the composite ply 312 using a corresponding one of the plurality of forming features 104.

In one or more examples, the plurality of forming features 104 form the interface surface 146 that is substantially continuous for contact with the composite ply 312. For example, each one of the plurality of forming features 104 abuts a directly adjacent one of the plurality of forming features 104 to form the interface surface 146 for contact with the composite ply 312.

Referring to FIG. 11 , in one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes a plurality of second end effectors 202, a plurality of second forming features 204, and a plurality of second non-contact heaters 212. Each one of the plurality of second end effectors 202 is coupled to the movement mechanism 302, such as to the carriage 336. Each one of the plurality of second forming features 204 is coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of second end effectors 202. Each one of the plurality of second non-contact heaters 212 is coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of second forming features 204. Each one of the plurality of second end effectors 202 selectively positions and moves a corresponding one of the plurality of second forming features 204 relative to the composite ply 312 to compact (e.g., apply the second compaction force 244) the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 using corresponding one of the plurality of second forming features 104. The movement mechanism 302 selectively positions and moves each one of the plurality of second end effectors 202 relative to the composite ply 312 or the forming surface 310 to form the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 over at least a second portion of the forming surface 310 using a corresponding one of the plurality of second forming features 204. The plurality of second non-contact heaters 212 locally heats the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 via at least one of radiation and convection before the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 by the plurality of second forming features 204.

In one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes a plurality of second temperature sensors 230. Each one of the plurality of second temperature sensors 230 detects a temperature of a corresponding portion of the composite ply 312. The control unit 136 is coupled to (e.g., is in communication with) each one of the plurality of second non-contact heaters 212 and each one of the plurality of second temperature sensors 230. The control unit 136 selectively controls each one of the plurality of second non-contact heaters 212 based on at least one of the second temperature signal 238 provided by a corresponding one of the plurality of second temperature sensors 230, a second amperage supplied to a corresponding one of the plurality of the second non-contact heaters 212, and a second power output or heat output supplied by a corresponding one of the plurality of second non-contact heaters 212.

In one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 includes a plurality of second sensors 240. Each one of the plurality of second sensors 240 detects at least one of a force applied to and a relative position of a corresponding one of the plurality of second forming features 204. In one or more examples, the control unit 136 is coupled to (e.g., is in communication with) each one of the plurality of second end effectors 202 and each one of the plurality of second sensors 240. The control unit 136 selectively controls movement of each one of the plurality of second end effectors 202 based on a second sensor signal 242 provided by a corresponding one of the plurality of second sensors 240 to apply the second compaction force 244 at a constant magnitude to the composite ply 312 using a corresponding one of the plurality of second forming features 204.

In one or more examples, the plurality of second forming features 204 form the second interface surface 246 that is substantially continuous for contact with the composite ply 312. For example, each one of the plurality of second forming feature 204 abuts a directly adjacent one of the plurality of second forming features 204 to form the second interface surface 246 for contact with the composite ply 312.

In one or more examples, the composite forming system 300 is one of a plurality of sub-systems of a larger automated composite manufacturing system. Each one of the plurality of sub-systems facilitates and corresponds to a different fabrication operation associated with the manufacture of the composite structure 314 (e.g., a composite part). The sub-systems of the automated composite manufacturing system are interlinked and cooperate to automate at least a portion of the fabrication process.

For example, the automated composite manufacturing system utilizes a plurality of semi-automated or fully automated sub-systems to perform ply-by-ply formation and compaction of individual layers of the composite ply 312 on the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. For the purpose of the present disclosure, ply-by-ply formation refers to sequential layup of a number of composite plies 312 on the forming surface 310 according to a predetermined sequence. For the purpose of the present disclosure, layup refers to placement of the composite ply 312 on at least a portion of the forming surface 310, compaction of the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310, and formation of at least a portion of the composite ply 312 over at least a portion of the forming surface 310. During or subsequent to layup, the number of composite plies 312 is compacted on the forming surface 310, such as individually after each layer of the composite ply 312 has been laid down or after more than one layer of the composite ply 312 had been laid down.

Referring now to FIG. 12 , which illustrates an example of the method 1000 for forming the composite structure 314 on the forming tool 308. Examples of the method 1000 enable automated, or at least partially automated, fabrication of the composite laminate 328 on the forming tool 308. More particularly, examples of the method 1000 enable automated, or at least partially automated, formation of at least one layer of the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 for manufacture of the composite structure 314.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 12 , in one or more examples, implementations of the method 1000 enable forming the composite laminate 328 on the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300 disclosed herein.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1-11 and particularly to FIG. 12 , in one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1002) placing the composite ply 312 over the forming tool 308 or over the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1002) placing the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 includes a step of positioning the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. Positioning the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 may be performed manually or automatically by a programmable machine.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1004) locally heating a portion (e.g., portion 350) of the composite ply 312 via at least one of radiation and convection. In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1004) locally heating a portion of the composite ply 312 is performed using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1004) locally heating the portion of the composite ply 312 includes a step of locally heating the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 via at least one of radiation and convection using the non-contact heater 112.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1004) locally heating the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 includes a step of heating the first ply surface 330 of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 ahead of the forming feature 104 using the first non-contact heating element 126 of the non-contact heater 112 directly before the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 by the forming feature 104. The first ply surface 330 of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 faces away from the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. The forming feature 104 contacts the first ply surface 330 of the composite ply 312.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1004) locally heating the portion of the composite ply 312 includes a step of heating the second ply surface 332 of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 ahead of the forming feature 104 using the second non-contact heating element 148 of the non-contact heater 112 directly before the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. The second ply surface 332 of the composite ply 312 is opposite the first ply surface 330 of the composite ply 312. The second ply surface 332 faces the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1.

Generally, the portion of the composite ply 312 being heated is at least the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 being supported by the ply support member 106 and/or being swept over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. As an example, as illustrated in FIG. 3 , the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is heated by the non-contact heater 112 (e.g., the first non-contact heating element 126 and/or the second non-contact heating element 148) before and/or while forming (e.g., block 1008) the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over a portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 using the forming feature 104. As an example, as illustrated in FIG. 4 , the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is heated by the non-contact heater 112 (e.g., the first non-contact heating element 126 and/or the second non-contact heating element 148) before and/or while forming (e.g., block 1008) the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over at least a portion of the forming surface of the prior formed composite ply 312-1 using the forming feature 104.

Locally heating the portion of the composite ply 312 beneficially prepares the composite ply 312 for compaction against and formation over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. For example, locally heating (e.g., block 1004) the composite ply 312 using the non-contact heater 112 before and/or while forming (e.g., block 1008) the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 softens the composite ply 312 and facilitates improved adhesion of the composite ply 312 to the forming surface 310. Additionally, locally heating the portion of the composite ply 312 being formed increases processing speeds.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 also includes in a step of heating the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 ahead of the forming feature 104, for example, using the second non-contact heating element 148 of the non-contact heater 112, directly before the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the prior formed composite ply 312-1 by the forming feature (104).

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1006) compressing the portion of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is compressed against the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 ). In one or more examples, the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is compressed against the forming surface 310 of the prior formed composite ply 312-1 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4 ). In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1006) compressing the portion of the composite ply 312 is performed using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1006) compressing (e.g., compacting) the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 includes a step of positioning the forming feature 104 in contact with the first ply surface 330 of the composite ply 312 using the end effector 102. In one or more examples, the end effector 102 moves the forming feature 104 relative to the composite ply 312 to apply the compaction force 144 to the portion of the composite ply 312. The compaction force 144 compresses the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1008) forming the portion of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the step of (block 1008) forming the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is performed while compressing (e.g., block 1004) and while or after locally heating (e.g., block 1004) the portion 350 of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, as shown in FIG. 3 , the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is formed over at least a portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308. In one or more examples, as shown in FIG. 4 , the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is formed over at least a portion of the forming surface 310 of the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1008) forming the portion of the composite ply 312 is performed using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1008) forming the portion of the composite ply 312 includes a step of forming the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over the portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 while compacting (e.g., block 1006) the composite ply 312 using the forming feature 104 and after heating (e.g., block 1004) the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 using the non-contact heater 112.

In one or more examples, the step of (block 1008) forming the portion of the composite ply 312 includes a step of applying or maintaining the compaction force 144 to the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 using the forming feature 104 and a step of moving the forming feature 104 relative to the composite ply 312 and/or the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, the step of moving the forming feature 104 relative to the forming surface 310 includes a step of moving the end effector 102 relative to the composite ply 312 or the forming surface 310, for example, using the movement mechanism 302 and/or the actuator 110.

With the forming feature 104 in contact with the composite ply 312, moving the forming feature 104 sweeps the forming feature 104 over the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 and, consequently, sweeps the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3 ) or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4 ). Accordingly, a compression nip is formed by (e.g., between) the forming feature 104 and the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 as the forming feature 104 moves across the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the composite ply 312 is locally heated ahead (e.g., forward, in front, or downstream) of the compression nip from one or more directions by the non-contact heater 112.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of positioning the non-contact heater 112 relative to the composite ply 312 ahead of the forming feature 104 such that the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is locally heated directly before the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is formed over at least a portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior composite ply 312-1 by the forming feature 104.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1010) locally cooling a portion (e.g., portion 350) of the composite ply 312. Generally, the step of (block 1010) locally cooling is performed during or after forming (e.g., block 1008) the portion of the composite ply 312 (e.g., while the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is under pressure). In one or more examples, as shown in FIG. 3 , the portion of the composite ply 312 that is cooled is the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 that is swept over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308. In one or more examples, as shown in FIG. 4 , the portion of the composite ply 312 that is cooled is the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 that is swept over the forming surface 310 of the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1010) locally cooling the portion of the composite ply 312 is performed using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, step of (block 1010) locally cooling the portion of the composite ply 312 includes a step of cooling the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 using the cooling element 124 via at least one of conduction and convection.

Locally cooling the composite ply 312 after forming the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 can beneficially increase forming speed of the composite laminate 328. For example, cooling (e.g., actively or passively) each layer of the composite ply 312 using the cooling element 124 after laying down (e.g., placing, compressing, and forming) the composite ply 312 and before laying down a subsequent layer of the composite ply 312 can prevent heat from building up within the composite laminate 328 during formation.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1012) supporting the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 before and/or while forming (e.g., block 1008) the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over at least a portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1012) supporting the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is performed using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1012) supporting the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 includes a step of supporting the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 using the ply support member 106. The portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is supported by the ply support member 106 before and/or while forming (e.g., block 1008) the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over the portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior composite ply 312-1 using the forming feature 104.

Supporting the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 can beneficially prevent wrinkling of the composite ply 312 while forming the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310. For example, supporting the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 on the ply support member 106 maintains the composite ply 312 in an appropriate position for the forming feature 104 to form the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1014) heating (e.g., pre-heating) a portion (e.g., portion 350) of the composite ply 312, for example, via conduction, before compressing (e.g., block 1006) the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 and/or before forming (e.g., block 1008) the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over the portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, the step of (block 1014) heating the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is performed using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1014) heating the portion of the composite ply 312 includes a step of heating the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 via conduction using the ply support member 106. The portion 350 of the composite ply 312 being heated is at least the portion of the composite ply 312 being supported by the ply support member 106. As an example, as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is heated by the ply support member 106 before and/or while forming (e.g., block 1008) the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over a portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 using the forming feature 104.

Heating the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 that is supported by the ply support member 106 beneficially prepares the composite ply 312 for formation over the forming surface 310. As an example, pre-heating the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 before locally heating the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 reduces temperature ramp up times. As another example, pre-heating the composite ply 312 before and/or while forming the composite ply 312 softens the composite ply 312 and facilitates improved durability and/or improved adhesion of the composite ply 312 to the forming surface 310.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of heating at least the portion 350 of the composite ply 312, for example, using the forming tool 308, such as using the tool-heater 372 of the forming tool 308. In one or more examples, the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 is heated using the forming tool 308 from a direction that is opposite the forming feature 104. Heating the composite ply 312 using the forming tool 308 may help tack the composite ply 312 into the desired shape after forming.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of heating at least a portion the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1, for example, using the tool-heater 372 of the forming tool 308. In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of heating at least a portion of the prior formed composite ply 312-1 using the forming tool 308 before and/or while forming (e.g., block 1008) the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 of the prior formed composite ply 312-1. Heating the prior formed composite ply 312-1 using the forming tool 308 may help increase adhesion between the successive layers of the composite ply 312 and tack the successive layers of the composite ply 312 into the desired shape after forming.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1 and 5-9 and particularly to FIG. 12 , in one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1016) locally heating the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 via at least one of radiation and convection. In one or more examples, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 , the second portion of the composite ply 312 that is heated is the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 that is being swept over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1016) locally heating the second portion of the composite ply 312 is performed using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1016) locally heating the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 includes a step of heating the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 via at least one of radiation and convection using the second non-contact heater 212.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1016) locally heating the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 includes a step of heating the first ply surface 330 of the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 ahead of the second forming feature 204 using the third non-contact heating element 226 of the second non-contact heater 212 directly before the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 by the second forming feature 204. The first ply surface 330 of the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 faces away from the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. The second forming feature 204 contacts the first ply surface 330 of the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1016) locally heating the second portion of the composite ply 312 includes a step of heating the second ply surface 332 of the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 ahead of the second forming feature 204 using the fourth non-contact heating element 248 of the second non-contact heater 212 directly before the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 by the second forming feature 204. The second ply surface 332 of the composite ply 312 is opposite the first ply surface 330 of the composite ply 312. The second ply surface 332 faces the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1.

The portion of the composite ply 312 being heated is at least the portion of the composite ply 312 being supported by the second ply support member 206 and/or being swept over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. As an example, as illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 , the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is heated by the second non-contact heater 212 (e.g., the third non-contact heating element 226 and/or the fourth non-contact heating element 248) before and/or while forming (e.g., block 1020) the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 over at least a second portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 using the second forming feature 204.

Locally heating the second portion of the composite ply 312 beneficially prepares the composite ply 312 for compaction against and formation over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. For example, locally heating (e.g., block 1016) the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 using the second non-contact heater 212 before and/or while forming (e.g., block 1020) the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 softens the composite ply 312 and facilitates improved adhesion of the composite ply 312 to the forming surface 310. Additionally, locally heating the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 being formed increases processing speeds.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1018) compressing the second portion (e.g., second portion 352) of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is compressed against the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1018) compressing the second portion of the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 is performed using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1018) compressing (e.g., compacting) the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 includes a step of positioning the second forming feature 204 in contact with the first ply surface 330 of the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 using the second end effector 202. In one or more examples, the second end effector 202 moves the second forming feature 204 relative to the composite ply 312 to apply the second compaction force 244 to the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312. The second compaction force 244 compresses the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1020) forming the second portion (e.g., second portion 352) of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the step of (block 1020) forming the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is performed while compressing (e.g., block 1018) and while and/or after locally heating (e.g., block 1016) the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is formed over a second portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1020) forming the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is performed using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1020) forming the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 includes a step of forming the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 over at least a second portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 using the second forming feature 204 while compressing (e.g., block 1018) the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 using the second forming feature 204 and after heating (e.g., block 1016) the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 using the second non-contact heater 212.

In one or more examples, the step of the step of (block 1020) forming the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 includes a step of applying and/or maintaining the second compaction force 244 to the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 using the second forming feature 204 and a step of moving the second forming feature 204 relative to the composite ply 312 or relative to the forming surface 310. In one or more examples, the step of moving the second forming feature 204 relative to the composite ply 312 or the forming surface 310 includes a step of moving the second end effector 202 relative to the composite ply 312 or the forming surface 310, for example, using the movement mechanism 302 and/or the second actuator 210.

With the second forming feature 204 in contact with the composite ply 312, moving the second forming feature 204 sweeps the second forming feature 204 over the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 and, consequently, sweeps the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. Accordingly, a second compression nip is formed by (e.g., between) the second forming feature 204 and the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 as the second forming feature 204 moves across the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is locally heated ahead (e.g., forward, in front, or downstream) of the second compression nip from one or more directions by the second non-contact heater 212.

Generally, the second non-contact heater 212 is positioned relative to the composite ply 312 ahead of the second forming feature 204 such that the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is heated directly before the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is formed over at least a second portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior composite ply 312-1 by the second forming feature 204.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1022) locally cooling at least the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 after forming (e.g., block 1020) the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1022) locally cooling the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is performed using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1022) locally cooling the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 includes a step of cooling the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 using the second cooling element 224 via at least one of conduction and convection.

Locally cooling the composite ply 312 after forming the composite ply 312 over the forming surface 310 can beneficially increase forming speed of the composite laminate 328. For example, cooling each layer of the composite ply 312 using the cooling element 124 after laying down (e.g., placing, compressing, and forming) the composite ply 312 and before laying down a subsequent layer of the composite ply 312 can prevent heat from building up within the composite laminate 328 during formation.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1024) supporting the second portion (e.g., second portion 352) of the composite ply 312 before and/or while forming (e.g., block 1020) the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 over at least a second portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1024) supporting the second portion of the composite ply 312 is performed using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1024) supporting the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 includes a step of supporting the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 using the second ply support member 206. The second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is supported by the second ply support member 206 before and/or while forming (e.g., block 1020) the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 over the second portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 using the second forming feature 204.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1026) heating at least the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312, for example, via conduction, before compressing (e.g., block 1018) the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 and/or before forming (e.g., block 1020) the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 over the second portion of the forming surface 310. In one or more examples, the step of (block 1026) heating the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is performed using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1024) heating the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 includes a step of heating the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 via conduction using the second ply support member 206. The second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 being heated is at least the portion of the composite ply 312 being supported by the second ply support member 206. As an example, as illustrated in FIG. 10 , the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 is heated by the second ply support member 206 before and/or while forming (e.g., block 1020) the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 over at least a second portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 using the second forming feature 204.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1-11 and particularly to FIG. 12 , in one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1028) detecting a temperature of the composite ply 312 and a step of (block 1030) selectively controlling the temperature of the composite ply 312 before, while, and/or after forming (e.g., block 1008) the portion of the composite ply 312 and forming (e.g., block 1022) the second portion of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1028) detecting the temperature and the step of (block 1030) selectively controlling the temperature of the composite ply 312 are performed using the using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300.

In one or more examples, the step of (block 1028) detecting and the step of (block 1030) controlling the temperature of the composite ply 312 are performed before, during, and/or after the steps of (block 1014 and block 1026) heating the composite ply 312.

In one or more examples, the step of (block 1028) detecting and the step of (block 1030) controlling the temperature of the composite ply 312 are performed before, during, and/or after the steps of (block 1006 and block 1018) compressing the composite ply 312.

In one or more examples, the step of (block 1028) detecting and the step of (block 1030) controlling the temperature of the composite ply 312 are performed before, during, and/or after the steps of (block 1004 and block 1016) locally heating the composite ply 312.

In one or more examples, the step of (block 1028) detecting and the step of (block 1030) controlling the temperature of the composite ply 312 are performed before, during, and/or after the steps of (block 1008 and block 1020) forming the composite ply 312.

In one or more examples, the step of (block 1028) detecting and the step of (block 1030) controlling the temperature of the composite ply 312 are performed before, during, and/or after the steps of (block 1010 and block 1022) locally cooling the composite ply 312.

In one or more examples, controlling (e.g., block 1030) the temperature of the composite ply 312 is achieved by controlling the amount of heat being added to the composite ply 312, for example, by the non-contact heater 112, the second non-contact heater 212, the ply support member 106, the second ply support member 206, the environment heater 320, and/or the additional heater 370. In one or more examples, controlling (e.g., block 1030) the temperature of the composite ply 312 is achieved by controlling the amount of heat being removed from the composite ply 312, for example, by the forming feature 104, the second forming feature 204, the cooling element 124, and/or the second cooling element 224. In one or more examples, controlling (e.g., block 1030) the temperature of the composite ply 312 is achieved by controlling the amperage supplied to the non-contact heater 112 and/or the second non-contact heater 212 and/or the power or heat output of the non-contact heater 112 and/or the second non-contact heater 212.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1028) detecting the temperature of the composite ply 312 includes a step of detecting a temperature of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 using the temperature sensor 130. In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1028) detecting the temperature of the composite ply 312 includes a step of detecting a temperature of the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 using the second temperature sensor 230.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1030) selectively controlling the temperature of the composite ply 312 includes a step of selectively controlling the temperature of the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 using the non-contact heater 112 based on the temperature signal 138 provided by the temperature sensor 130. In one or more examples, the step of (block 1030) selectively controlling the temperature of the composite ply 312 includes a step of selectively controlling the amperage supplied to or the power output of the non-contact heater 112, for example, based on a temperature control feedback loop.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of (block 1030) selectively controlling the temperature of the composite ply 312 includes a step of selectively controlling the temperature of the second portion of the composite ply 312 using the second non-contact heater 212 based on the second temperature signal 238 provided by the second temperature sensor 230. In one or more examples, the step of (block 1030) selectively controlling the temperature of the composite ply 312 includes a step of selectively controlling the amperage supplied to or the power output of the non-contact heater 112, for example, based on the temperature control feedback loop.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of maintaining the compaction force 144, applied to the portion of the composite ply 312, at a substantially constant magnitude while forming the portion of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the step of maintaining the compaction force 144 is performed using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of maintaining the compaction force 144 includes a step of detecting a force or a load applied to the forming feature 104 using the sensor 140 and a step of selectively controlling the compaction force 144 applied to the portion of the composite ply 312 by the forming feature 104 at a substantially constant magnitude based on the sensor signal 142 provided by the sensor 140.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of maintaining the second compaction force 244, applied to the second portion of the composite ply 312, at a substantially constant magnitude while forming the second portion of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the step of maintaining the second compaction force 244 is performed using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of maintaining the second compaction force 244 includes a step of detecting a force or a load applied to the second forming feature 204 using the second sensor 240 and a step of selectively controlling the second compaction force 244, applied to the second portion of the composite ply 312 by the forming feature 104, at a substantially constant magnitude based on the second sensor signal 242 provided by the second sensor 240.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of holding (e.g., clamping) the composite ply 312 while forming (e.g., block 1008) the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over the portion of the forming surface 310 and/or while forming (e.g., block 1020) the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 over the portion of the forming surface 310.

In one or more examples, according to the method 1000, the step of holding the composite ply 312 includes a step of pressing the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 using the stomp foot 324. In one or more examples, the composite ply 312 is held (e.g., clamped) in place while heating (e.g., block 1004) and/or forming (e.g., block 1008) the portion 350 of the composite ply 312 over at least a portion of the forming surface 310 using the forming feature 104 and/or while heating (e.g., block 1016) and/or forming (e.g., block 1020) the second portion 352 of the composite ply 312 over at least a second portion of the forming surface 310 using the second forming feature 204.

In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1032) forming the composite laminate 328 on the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. The composite laminate 328 includes at least one layer of the composite ply 312. In one or more examples, the method 1000 includes a step of (block 1034) curing the composite laminate 328 to fabricate (e.g., form) the composite structure 314 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1 ). In one or more examples, the composite laminate 328 is cured on the forming tool 308. In one or more examples, the composite laminate 328 is transferred from the forming tool 308 to a cure tool (not shown) and is cured on the cure tool.

In one or more examples, the steps (e.g., block 1002 through block 1030) of the method 1000 described above are repeated a number of times to form the composite laminate 328 (e.g., block 1032). For example, the method 1000 includes a step of placing at least one additional layer of the composite ply 312 over at least one layer of the prior formed composite ply 312-1, located on the forming tool 308. The method 1000 includes a step of locally heating a portion of each successive layer of the composite ply 312 via at least one of radiation and convection. The method 1000 includes a step of compressing a portion of each successive layer of the composite ply 312 against the forming surface 310 of the underlying, immediately previous layer of the prior formed composite ply 312-1. The method 1000 includes a step of forming a portion of each successive layer of the composite ply 312 over at least a portion of the forming surface 310 of the underlying, immediately previous layer of the prior formed composite ply 312 after heating the portion of the composite ply 312.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 12 , in one or more examples, the present disclosure is also directed to the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300 that is operated according to the method 1000 to enable forming the composite laminate 328 on the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308.

Referring to FIG. 1 , the present disclosure is further directed to the composite laminate 328 that is formed or fabricated on the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 and/or the composite structure 314 fabricated from the composite laminate 328 using the composite forming apparatus 100 and/or the composite forming system 300 disclosed herein. Referring to FIG. 12 , the present disclosure is additionally directed to the composite laminate 328 and/or the composite structure 314, which are formed according to the method 1000 disclosed herein.

In one or more examples, the composite structure 314 includes at least one layer of the composite ply 312. The at least one layer of the composite ply 312 is formed over the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or over the prior formed composite ply 312-1 to fabricate the composite laminate 328. A portion of the composite ply 312 is heated via at least one of radiation and convection before and/or while the portion of the composite ply 312 is formed over a portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool 308 or the prior formed composite ply 312-1 using the forming feature 104. In one or more examples, the portion of the composite ply 312 is cooled by the cooling element 124, for example, via conduction and/or convection, after the portion of the composite ply 312 is formed over the portion of the forming surface 310 of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply 312-1. The composite laminate 328 is then cured to form the composite structure 314.

Referring now to FIGS. 13 and 14 , examples of the composite forming apparatus 100, the composite forming system 300, the method 1000, and the composite structure 314 may be related to, or used in the context of, an aircraft manufacturing and service method 1100, as shown in the flow diagram of FIG. 13 and an aircraft 1200, as schematically illustrated in FIG. 14 . For example, the aircraft 1200 and/or the aircraft production and service method 1100 may utilize the composite structure 314 that is made using the composite forming apparatus 100 or the composite forming system 300, described herein and illustrated in FIGS. 1-11 , and/or according to the method 1000, described herein and illustrated in FIG. 12 .

The present disclosure recognizes that composite structures can be advantageous in the manufacture of aircraft to decrease the weight of the aircraft and provide longer service life for various components of the aircraft. In manufacturing composite structures, layers of composite material are typically laid up on a tool. Often, each layer of composite material includes a fiber sheet that is infused or pre-impregnated with a matrix material. The different layers of composite material may be laid up in different orientations, and different numbers of layers may be used depending on the performance requirements of the composite structure being manufactured. Due to size, geometry, and/or complexity of composite structure, layup of the layers of composite material may be more difficult or more labor intensive than desired. The examples of the composite forming apparatus 100, the composite forming system 300, and the method 1000 improve upon production speed, conformity, and manufacturability of such composite structures.

Referring to FIG. 14 , examples of the aircraft 1200 may include an airframe 1202 having the interior 1206. The aircraft 1200 also includes a plurality of high-level systems 1204. Examples of the high-level systems 1204 include one or more of a propulsion system 1208, an electrical system 1210, a hydraulic system 1212, and an environmental system 1214. In other examples, the aircraft 1200 may include any number of other types of systems, such as a communications system, a flight control system, a guidance system, a weapons system, and the like. In one or more examples, the composite structure 314 made using the composite forming apparatus 100 or the composite forming system 300 and/or according to the method 1000 forms a component of the airframe 1202, such as a wing 1220, a fuselage 1218, a panel, a stringer, a spar, and the like.

Referring to FIG. 13 , during pre-production, the method 1100 includes specification and design of the aircraft 1200 (block 1102) and material procurement (block 1104). During production of the aircraft 1200, component and subassembly manufacturing (block 1106) and system integration (block 1108) of the aircraft 1200 take place. Thereafter, the aircraft 1200 goes through certification and delivery (block 1110) to be placed in service (block 1112). Routine maintenance and service (block 1114) includes modification, reconfiguration, refurbishment, etc. of one or more systems of the aircraft 1200.

Each of the processes of the method 1100 illustrated in FIG. 13 may be performed or carried out by a system integrator, a third party, and/or an operator (e.g., a customer). For the purposes of this description, a system integrator may include, without limitation, any number of spacecraft manufacturers and major-system subcontractors; a third party may include, without limitation, any number of vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers; and an operator may be an airline, leasing company, military entity, service organization, and so on.

Examples of the composite forming apparatus 100, the composite forming system 300, and the method 1000 shown and described herein may be employed during any one or more of the stages of the manufacturing and service method 1100 shown in the flow diagram illustrated by FIG. 13 . In an example, manufacture of the composite structure 314 in accordance with the method 1000 and/or using the composite forming apparatus 100 or the composite forming system 300 may form a portion of component and subassembly manufacturing (block 1106) and/or system integration (block 1108). Further, the composite structure 314 manufactured in accordance with the method 1000 and/or using the composite forming apparatus 100 or the composite forming system 300 may be utilized in a manner similar to components or subassemblies prepared while the aircraft 1200 is in service (block 1112). Also, the composite structure 314 manufactured in accordance with the method 1000 and/or using the composite forming apparatus 100 or the composite forming system 300 may be utilized during system integration (block 1108) and certification and delivery (block 1110). Similarly, manufacture of the composite structure 314 in accordance with the method 1000 and/or using the composite forming apparatus 100 or the composite forming system 300 may be utilized, for example and without limitation, while the aircraft 1200 is in service (block 1112) and during maintenance and service (block 1114). For example, spare and or replacement composite parts may be fabricated in accordance with the method 1000 and/or using the composite forming apparatus 100 or the composite forming system 300, which may be installed due to a prescribed maintenance cycle or after a realization of damage to the composite part.

Although an aerospace example is shown, the examples and principles disclosed herein may be applied to other industries, such as the automotive industry, the space industry, the construction industry, and other design and manufacturing industries. Accordingly, in addition to aircraft, the examples and principles disclosed herein may apply to structural component assemblies and systems and methods of making the same for other types of vehicles (e.g., land vehicles, marine vehicles, space vehicles, etc.) and stand-alone structures.

The preceding detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific examples described by the present disclosure. Other examples having different structures and operations do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure. Like reference numerals may refer to the same feature, element, or component in the different drawings. Throughout the present disclosure, any one of a plurality of items may be referred to individually as the item and a plurality of items may be referred to collectively as the items and may be referred to with like reference numerals. Moreover, as used herein, a feature, element, component or step preceded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding a plurality of features, elements, components or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly recited.

Illustrative, non-exhaustive examples, which may be, but are not necessarily, claimed, of the subject matter according to the present disclosure are provided above. Reference herein to “example” means that one or more feature, structure, element, component, characteristic, and/or operational step described in connection with the example is included in at least one aspect, embodiment, and/or implementation of the subject matter according to the present disclosure. Thus, the phrases “an example,” “another example,” “one or more examples,” and similar language throughout the present disclosure may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same example. Further, the subject matter characterizing any one example may, but does not necessarily, include the subject matter characterizing any other example. Moreover, the subject matter characterizing any one example may be, but is not necessarily, combined with the subject matter characterizing any other example.

As used herein, a system, apparatus, device, structure, article, element, component, or hardware “configured to” perform a specified function is indeed capable of performing the specified function without any alteration, rather than merely having potential to perform the specified function after further modification. In other words, the system, apparatus, device, structure, article, element, component, or hardware “configured to” perform a specified function is specifically selected, created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and/or designed for the purpose of performing the specified function. As used herein, “configured to” denotes existing characteristics of a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware that enable the system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware to perform the specified function without further modification. For purposes of this disclosure, a system, apparatus, device, structure, article, element, component, or hardware described as being “configured to” perform a particular function may additionally or alternatively be described as being “adapted to” and/or as being “operative to” perform that function.

Temperatures (e.g., forming temperatures) and temperature ranges (e.g., forming temperature ranges) provided herein for heating the composite ply 312 are provided as examples and other temperatures or ranges of temperatures, for example, less than or greater than the example temperatures or ranges of temperatures, may be implemented without departing from the intended function of the forming apparatus 100 and the forming system 300, without departing from the intended implementation of the method 1000, and without departing from the principles and purpose of the present disclosure.

Unless otherwise indicated, the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. are used herein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose ordinal, positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which these terms refer. Moreover, reference to, e.g., a “second” item does not require or preclude the existence of, e.g., a “first” or lower-numbered item, and/or, e.g., a “third” or higher-numbered item.

For the purpose of the present disclosure, the term “position” of an item refers to a location of the item in three-dimensional space relative to a fixed reference frame and an angular orientation of the item in three-dimensional space relative to the fixed reference frame.

As used herein, the phrase “a number of” refers to one or more items.

As used herein, the phrase “at least one of”, when used with a list of items, means different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used and only one of each item in the list may be needed. For example, “at least one of item A, item B, and item C” may include, without limitation, item A or item A and item B. This example also may include item A, item B, and item C, or item B and item C. In other examples, “at least one of” may be, for example, without limitation, two of item A, one of item B, and ten of item C; four of item B and seven of item C; and other suitable combinations. As used herein, the term “and/or” and the “/” symbol includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

For the purpose of this disclosure, the terms “coupled,” “coupling,” and similar terms refer to two or more elements that are joined, linked, fastened, attached, connected, put in communication, or otherwise associated (e.g., mechanically, electrically, fluidly, optically, electromagnetically) with one another. In various examples, the elements may be associated directly or indirectly. As an example, element A may be directly associated with element B. As another example, element A may be indirectly associated with element B, for example, via another element C. It will be understood that not all associations among the various disclosed elements are necessarily represented. Accordingly, couplings other than those depicted in the figures may also exist.

As used herein, the term “approximately” refers to or represent a condition that is close to, but not exactly, the stated condition that still performs the desired function or achieves the desired result. As an example, the term “approximately” refers to a condition that is within an acceptable predetermined tolerance or accuracy, such as to a condition that is within 10% of the stated condition. However, the term “approximately” does not exclude a condition that is exactly the stated condition. As used herein, the term “substantially” refers to a condition that is essentially the stated condition that performs the desired function or achieves the desired result.

FIGS. 1-11 and 14 , referred to above, may represent functional elements, features, or components thereof and do not necessarily imply any particular structure. Accordingly, modifications, additions and/or omissions may be made to the illustrated structure. Additionally, those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all elements, features, and/or components described and illustrated in FIGS. 1-11 and 14 , referred to above, need be included in every example and not all elements, features, and/or components described herein are necessarily depicted in each illustrative example. Accordingly, some of the elements, features, and/or components described and illustrated in FIGS. 1-11 and 14 may be combined in various ways without the need to include other features described and illustrated in FIGS. 1-11 and 14 , other drawing figures, and/or the accompanying disclosure, even though such combination or combinations are not explicitly illustrated herein. Similarly, additional features not limited to the examples presented, may be combined with some or all of the features shown and described herein. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the schematic illustrations of the examples depicted in FIGS. 1-11 and 145 , referred to above, are not meant to imply structural limitations with respect to the illustrative example. Rather, although one illustrative structure is indicated, it is to be understood that the structure may be modified when appropriate. Accordingly, modifications, additions and/or omissions may be made to the illustrated structure. Furthermore, elements, features, and/or components that serve a similar, or at least substantially similar, purpose are labeled with like numbers in each of FIGS. 1-11 and 14 , and such elements, features, and/or components may not be discussed in detail herein with reference to each of FIGS. 1-11 and 14 . Similarly, all elements, features, and/or components may not be labeled in each of FIGS. 1-11 and 14 , but reference numerals associated therewith may be utilized herein for consistency.

In FIGS. 12 and 13 , referred to above, the blocks may represent operations, steps, and/or portions thereof and lines connecting the various blocks do not imply any particular order or dependency of the operations or portions thereof. It will be understood that not all dependencies among the various disclosed operations are necessarily represented. FIGS. 12 and 13 and the accompanying disclosure describing the operations of the disclosed methods set forth herein should not be interpreted as necessarily determining a sequence in which the operations are to be performed. Rather, although one illustrative order is indicated, it is to be understood that the sequence of the operations may be modified when appropriate. Accordingly, modifications, additions and/or omissions may be made to the operations illustrated and certain operations may be performed in a different order or simultaneously. Additionally, those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all operations described need be performed.

Further, references throughout the present specification to features, advantages, or similar language used herein do not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized with the examples disclosed herein should be, or are in, any single example. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an example is included in at least one example. Thus, discussion of features, advantages, and similar language used throughout the present disclosure may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same example.

The described features, advantages, and characteristics of one example may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more other examples. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the examples described herein may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular example. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain examples that may not be present in all examples. Furthermore, although various examples of the composite forming apparatus 100, the composite forming system 300, the method 1000, and the composite structure 314 have been shown and described, modifications may occur to those skilled in the art upon reading the specification. The present application includes such modifications and is limited only by the scope of the claims. 

1. A composite forming apparatus comprising: an end effector; a forming feature that is coupled to the end effector, wherein the end effector moves the forming feature relative to a composite ply to form the composite ply over a forming tool or a prior formed composite ply; and a non-contact heater that locally heats a portion of the composite ply before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply.
 2. (canceled)
 3. The composite forming apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the non-contact heater is positioned to locally heat the portion of the composite ply ahead of the forming feature; and the non-contact heater moves with the forming feature such that the non-contact heater locally heats the portion of the composite ply directly before the portion of the composite ply is formed over a forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply by the forming feature.
 4. The composite forming apparatus of claim 3, wherein: the non-contact heater heats the portion of the composite ply to a forming temperature of between approximately 310° F. and approximately 330° F.; and the forming feature forms the portion of the composite ply over the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply while the portion of the composite ply is maintained at the forming temperature by the non-contact heater.
 5. The composite forming apparatus of claim 3, wherein the non-contact heater is positioned to heat the prior formed composite ply ahead of the forming feature before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming surface of the prior formed composite ply by the forming feature.
 6. The composite forming apparatus of claim 1, wherein the non-contact heater is a radiant heater.
 7. The composite forming apparatus of claim 1, wherein the non-contact heater is a convection heater.
 8. The composite forming apparatus of claim 1, wherein the non-contact heater comprises: a first non-contact heating element that indirectly heats the portion of the composite ply from a first heating direction; and a second non-contact heating element that indirectly heats the portion of the composite ply from a second heating direction, which is opposite the first heating direction.
 9. The composite forming apparatus of claim 8, wherein: the first non-contact heating element is positioned to heat a first ply surface of the portion of the composite ply ahead of the forming feature before the portion of the composite ply is formed over a forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply by the forming feature; the second non-contact heating element is positioned to heat a second ply surface of the portion of the composite ply ahead of the forming feature before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply by the forming feature; the first ply surface of the composite ply faces away from the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply; the forming feature contacts the first ply surface of the composite ply; and the second ply surface of the composite ply faces the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply.
 10. The composite forming apparatus of claim 9, wherein the second non-contact heating element is positioned to heat the forming surface of the prior formed composite ply ahead of the forming feature before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming surface of the prior formed composite ply by the forming feature.
 11. (canceled)
 12. The composite forming apparatus of claim 8, further comprising a ply support member that is movable relative to the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply and relative to the forming feature to support the portion of the composite ply.
 13. The composite forming apparatus of claim 12, wherein: the first non-contact heating element is coupled to the end effector; and the second non-contact heating element is coupled to the ply support member. 14-17. (canceled)
 18. The composite forming apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a temperature sensor that detects a temperature of the composite ply. 19-20. (canceled)
 21. The composite forming apparatus of claim 18, further comprising a control unit that is coupled to the non-contact heater and the temperature sensor, wherein the control unit selectively controls the non-contact heater based on at least one of a temperature signal provided by the temperature sensor, an amperage supplied to the non-contact heater, and a heat output from the non-contact heater.
 22. A composite forming system comprising: a movement mechanism; the composite forming apparatus of claim 1 that is coupled to the movement mechanism; and a forming tool or a prior formed composite ply that comprises a forming surface, wherein: the movement mechanism selectively positions the composite forming apparatus relative to the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply; and the non-contact heater locally heats a portion of the composite ply via at least one of radiation and convection before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming surface of the forming tool or a prior formed composite ply using the forming feature. 23-24. (canceled)
 25. A composite forming system comprising: a movement mechanism; an end effector that is coupled to the movement mechanism; a forming feature that is coupled to the end effector; and a non-contact heater that is positioned relative to a composite ply, wherein: the end effector selectively moves the forming feature relative to the composite ply to compact the composite ply against a forming surface of a forming tool or a prior formed composite ply using the forming feature; the movement mechanism selectively moves the end effector relative to the composite ply to form a portion of the composite ply over at least a portion of the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply using the forming feature; and the non-contact heater locally heats the portion of the composite ply via at least one of radiation and convection before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply by the forming feature. 26-29. (canceled)
 30. The composite forming system of claim 25, wherein the non-contact heater comprises: a first non-contact heating element that indirectly heats the portion of the composite ply from a first heating direction; and a second non-contact heating element that indirectly heats the portion of the composite ply from a second heating direction, which is opposite the first heating direction.
 31. The composite forming system of claim 30, wherein: the first non-contact heating element is positioned to locally heat a first ply surface of the portion of the composite ply before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply by the forming feature; the second non-contact heating element is positioned to locally heat a second ply surface of the portion of the composite ply before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply by the forming feature; the first ply surface of the composite ply faces away from the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply; the forming feature contacts the first ply surface of the composite ply; and the second ply surface of the composite ply faces the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply. 32-54. (canceled)
 55. A method for fabricating a composite structure, the method comprising steps of: placing a composite ply over a forming tool or over a prior formed composite ply; locally heating a portion of the composite ply via at least one of radiation and convection using a non-contact heater; positioning a forming feature in contact with the composite ply using an end effector; and forming the portion of the composite ply over the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply using the forming feature after heating the portion of the composite ply using the non-contact heater.
 56. The method of claim 55, further comprising positioning the non-contact heater relative to the composite ply ahead of the forming feature such that the portion of the composite ply is locally heated directly before the portion of the composite ply is formed over at least a portion of a forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply by the forming feature.
 57. The method of claim 55, wherein: the step of locally heating the portion of the composite ply comprises heating a first ply surface of the portion of the composite ply ahead of the forming feature using a first non-contact heating element of the non-contact heater directly before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply by the forming feature; the first ply surface of the composite ply faces away from the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply; and the forming feature contacts the first ply surface of the composite ply.
 58. The method of claim 57, wherein: the step of locally heating the portion of the composite ply further comprises heating a second ply surface of the portion of the composite ply ahead of the forming feature using a second non-contact heating element of the non-contact heater directly before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply by the forming feature; and the second ply surface of the composite ply faces the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply.
 59. The method of claim 58, further comprising heating the forming surface of the prior formed composite ply ahead of the forming feature using the second non-contact heating element of the non-contact heater directly before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming surface of the prior formed composite ply by the forming feature. 60-69. (canceled)
 70. A method for forming a composite structure, the method comprising steps of: placing a composite ply over a forming tool or over a prior formed composite ply; locally heating a portion of the composite ply via at least one of radiation and convection; compressing the portion of the composite ply against a forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply; and forming the portion of the composite ply over at least a portion of the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply after locally heating the portion of the composite ply, wherein the portion of the composite ply is heated directly ahead of forming.
 71. The method of claim 70, wherein: the step of locally heating a portion of the composite ply comprises at least one of: heating a first ply surface of the portion of the composite ply directly before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply; and heating a second ply surface of the portion of the composite ply directly before the portion of the composite ply is formed over the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply; the first ply surface of the composite ply faces away from the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply; and the second ply surface of the composite ply faces the forming surface of the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply. 72-80. (canceled)
 81. A composite structure comprising: at least one layer of a composite ply, wherein: the at least one layer of the composite ply is formed over a forming tool or a prior formed composite ply; and a portion of the composite ply is locally heated via at least one of radiation and convection directly ahead of the portion of the composite ply being formed over the forming tool or the prior formed composite ply. 